A slot is a narrow notch, groove or opening, such as a keyway in a machine, slit for a coin in a vending machine or the mail slot at the post office. It can also refer to a position within a group, series or sequence.
Wide receivers who line up in the slot, behind the line of scrimmage, have more routes to run because they can go up, in and out. They must be precise with their timing and have great chemistry with the quarterback to be successful. They must be tough enough to absorb contact and fast enough to blow past defenders to gain separation.
Slot receivers must also be good blockers to protect the quarterback and keep defenders off of the ball. They are not required to be tall, but they need to be able to jump and get up in the air to catch high-point passes. The most effective slot receivers are those who can run every route on the field, catch the ball well in traffic and provide a reliable target for the quarterback.
A slot is a place in a machine or on a website where you can deposit money and spin the reels. You can win prizes if you match certain combinations of symbols or activate bonus games. Most slots have a theme and pay out winnings based on a predetermined paytable. Some keep a percentage of every wager and add it to a progressive jackpot that can be won at any time by a lucky player.