1. Defense Positions

2. Defensive Linemen Includes both tackles and both ends. D-Linemen line up in front of the offensive linemen, but the have to make sure that they are behind the ball. Their job is to stop any runs up the middle, and if it’s a pass, then they try and tackle the quarterback before he throws it(called a sack).

3. Linebacks Two outside linebackers, and the middle linebacker. These players have the job of seeing whether the offense is running a pass or a run. If it is a run, they go and tackle the ball carrier. If it is a pass, then they drop back into coverage.

4. Cornerbacks Cornerbacks line up across from the offense’s wide receivers. It is the job of the cornerbacks to cover the wide receiver so that they do not catch a pass.

5. Safeties The are the last line of defense. They line up about 12 yards behind the line of scrimmage. The job of the safety is to let no receiver behind them on a pass. If it is a run, safeties have to stop a running back if they get through everyone else on defense.