Positions: Defense

Question 1

Defensive End (DE)

Answer 1

The defensive end matches up against the other team’s lineman on the outside and is most known for trying to sack the QB on passing plays. You have two DEs on the field in most situations (3-4 and 4-3 defenses).

Question 2

Defensive Tackle (DT)

Answer 2

The DT plays in the middle of the defensive line usually closest to the center. He is mostly known for plugging up the middle and is usually one of the biggest players on the team (there’s one DT in a 3-4, two in a 4-3 defense).

Question 3

Outside Linebacker (OLB)

Answer 3

These LBs line up outside and can cover receivers or blitz on pass plays. They must tackle anything that gets past the line on a run play. You have two OLBs on the field in a 3-4 and a 4-3 defense.

Question 4

Middle Linebacker (MLB)

Answer 4

This player controls the middle of the field for the defense. He stands behind the defensive tackle and must tackle everything that comes through the middle. You have two MLBs in 3-4 and one in a 4-3 defense.

Question 5

Cornerback (CB)

Answer 5

These players play outside and must cover the WRs on passing plays.

Question 6

Free Safety (FS)

Answer 6

This player backs up the cornerbacks and helps give them support in the passing game.

Question 7

Strong Safety (SS)

Answer 7

This player helps in the passing game but can also be brought towards the line of scrimmage to help in the run game as well.