Sport: Football Category: Scores & Results

Quarterbacks face scrutiny for throwing 'meatball subs' this season

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 25, 2026, 6:07 PM

Last updated Sep 25, 2026

Quarterbacks face scrutiny for throwing 'meatball subs' this season

Summary

As the NFL season unfolds, a new phrase has gained popularity on social media: 'meatball sub,' referring to interceptions that result from a quarterback's careless decisions. Kyler Murray's pass against double coverage and Deshaun Watson's ill-fated throw to a defender exemplified the trend. Analysts stress that these interceptions stem from mental errors, as quarterbacks are often better off making safer plays. Misinterpretation of the term is also occurring, with some plays labeled incorrectly as meatball subs despite being defensive achievements. This ongoing conversation reflects the scrutiny quarterbacks face while developing their decision-making skills.

Source Links

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By the Numbers

•A 'meatball sub' refers to an interception due to a quarterback's error.
•Kyler Murray and Deshaun Watson exemplified this trend in recent games.
•Analysts warn about mislabeling interceptions, clarifying what constitutes a meatball sub.
•The term's popularity is expected to continue throughout the season.
•Pressure may lead to interceptions, but poor decisions are a common theme.

Latest Updates

6:07 PMYahoo Sports — Football’s Newest Internet Obsession, the Meatball Sub

What they're saying

"
Imagine this: your favorite quarterback just threw an interception. You open social media and immediately see the following phrase: “He just threw a meatball sub.” A meatball sub? As in the sandwich…? The new season has started, and the opportunity to post lowlights has returned. The Meaning of a Meatball Sub A “meatball sub” in […] The post Football’s Newest Internet Obsession, the Meatball Sub appeared first on The Lead.
— Yahoo Sports

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