Linebacker

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Linebacker is a position in American football and Canadian football that is part of the defensive team. Linebackers are typically positioned three to five yards behind the line of scrimmage and are responsible for both defending against the run and the pass. They are often considered the leaders of the defense due to their versatile role and the need to read the offensive play.

Types of Linebackers

There are generally three types of linebackers in a standard 4-3 defense (four defensive linemen and three linebackers):

• Middle Linebacker (MLB): Often referred to as the "Mike" linebacker, the middle linebacker is typically the leader of the defense. They are responsible for calling the defensive plays and making adjustments based on the offensive formation. The MLB must be adept at stopping the run and covering short to intermediate passing routes.

• Outside Linebacker (OLB): There are two outside linebackers in a 4-3 defense, commonly referred to as the "Sam" (strong-side) and "Will" (weak-side) linebackers. The Sam linebacker lines up on the side of the offensive formation with the tight end and is responsible for covering the tight end, stopping the run, and occasionally rushing the passer. The Will linebacker lines up on the opposite side and is often tasked with covering running backs and wide receivers, as well as providing run support.

In a 3-4 defense (three defensive linemen and four linebackers), the roles are slightly different:

• Inside Linebacker (ILB): There are two inside linebackers in a 3-4 defense, often referred to as the "Mike" and "Will" linebackers. Their responsibilities are similar to those of the middle linebacker in a 4-3 defense, with an emphasis on stopping the run and covering short to intermediate passing routes.

• Outside Linebacker (OLB): The outside linebackers in a 3-4 defense are often the primary pass rushers. They line up on the edges of the defensive formation and are responsible for rushing the passer, setting the edge against the run, and occasionally dropping into coverage.

Skills and Attributes

Linebackers must possess a combination of physical and mental attributes to be effective. Key skills and attributes include:

• Tackling: Linebackers must be strong tacklers, capable of bringing down ball carriers in open space.
• Speed and Agility: Speed is crucial for covering ground quickly, while agility allows linebackers to change direction and avoid blockers.
• Strength: Linebackers need upper body strength to shed blocks and lower body strength to drive through tackles.
• Football IQ: Understanding offensive schemes and being able to read plays quickly is essential for making the right decisions on the field.
• Leadership: As defensive leaders, linebackers must communicate effectively with teammates and make quick adjustments.

Famous Linebackers

Several linebackers have made significant impacts in the history of football. Some of the most notable include:

• Dick Butkus
• Ray Lewis
• Lawrence Taylor
• Jack Lambert
• Mike Singletary

Related Pages

• American football
• Canadian football
• Defensive end
• Defensive tackle
• Cornerback
• Safety (gridiron football position)