A slot is a narrow opening, or gap, into which something may be inserted. It is also a position or assignment in a sequence or series: a time slot, a job slot, a spot for a new employee. In football, a slot is a wide receiver who lines up between and slightly behind the two outside wide receivers and the offensive linemen, making them a key part of any good offense.

A quality slot receiver is a game changer. They help stretch out the defense, attack all three levels of the secondary, and can even step in to fill in on passing plays when a team needs an extra blocker. Because of their unique skill set, they can often see more targets and have better stats than the other wide receivers on a team.

Generally, slot receivers are shorter and stockier than the typical wideout. They also need to be able to run routes and catch the ball with great accuracy. They need to be tough enough to withstand contact in the middle of the field and fast enough to blow past defenders.

They are a vital piece of the puzzle for any good offense, as they can open up running plays for the rest of the team and create mismatches on passing plays. They can also be used as a safety in certain formations, helping to protect the quarterback from big hits.

The term slot was first coined by former Raiders head coach Al Davis in 1963. He took over the team in the middle of the season and immediately began implementing his innovative strategies, which included using the slot receiver to exploit defensive weaknesses. The slot receiver position as we know it today was born out of Davis’ creativity and was quickly adopted by other teams.

Slot receivers must be able to run multiple routes, including out-routes and go routes. They must also have excellent hands and be reliable when catching the ball in traffic. They need to be precise with their route running and have the speed to run underneath coverage or fly past cornerbacks on crossing routes.

In addition to their receiving skills, slot receivers must be strong run blockers to help their teammates on running plays. They are in a more vulnerable position than other wideouts, since they are closer to the middle of the field and can be targeted by opposing teams’ safeties and linebackers.

Depending on the game, a player inserts cash or, in “ticket-in, ticket-out” machines, a paper ticket with a barcode into a slot on the machine to activate it. The reels spin and, if a winning combination is displayed, the player receives credits according to the paytable. In some games, bonus features are aligned with the theme and offer additional opportunities to earn credits. The odds of winning are determined by the frequency of the symbols on each reel. Electromechanical slot machines had tilt switches that would make or break a circuit to indicate tampering or malfunctions. Modern slot machines use electronic sensors to detect the same conditions.