Football: Defensive Players
The defensive team runs all sorts of formations and schemes; and there are virtually a countless number of defensive formations that a team can use. Formations can vary from different teams. Regardless of what type of defensive formation the team uses, all 11 players have a specific position. The aim is unchanged: to prevent the offensive team reach the goal line whether by running or passing.
The defensive line is usually made up of 3 to 5 players. They are composed of the defensive end players and defensive tackle players. They line up on the defensive line of scrimmage, opposite the offensive line. Their job is to crash the offensive line and try to reach the quarterback before it can make a pass. The defensive line prevents the surge of the offensive players on a rushing play.
- A nose guard or often known as the middle guard is located at the middle of the defensive team (just behind the two defensive tackle players). He is extremely strong and usually quick with a job to stop the rushing player of the offensive team in the middle of the field. A nose guard can sack the quarterback or make a tackle of the player with the football.
- Linebackers are normally located just behind the defensive line. Their role depends on a specific type of play that the offensive team runs. They must be quick to read the offensive play and respond in order to stop the play. There are 3 types of linebackers: left or right outside linebacker which must protect the middle of the field; middle line backer which is often referred to as the quarterback of the defense; and weak side line backer which is often the quickest as his task is to run around the offensive line and sack the quarterback, commonly called blitz.
- Cornerbacks are located on the farthest left and right of the offensive formation. Their primary role is to cover the wide receivers.
- Safeties (free and strong) are players located at the back of the formation and are considered to be the last line of defense. The free safety is typically the faster one which provides extra cover to the wide receivers. The strong safety is usually the stronger and larger one to be able to provide extra cover for the running play. Traditionally, safeties are considered to be hard hitters but today, they are combination of strength and speed.