How to Play Linebacker in Football

Join a team and get equipped to play linebacker.

The linebacker plays a key part in football defense. He must be a strong tackler but also fast and agile. Linebackers with their versatile roles are often the stars of defensive teams.

Things You'll Need

• Helmet
• Shoulder pads
• Mouth guard

Instructions

Playing Defense

1. In American football (or "gridiron" football), the team is split into offense, defense and special teams. The linebacker position is part of the defense, which takes the field when the opposing team's offense has possession of the ball. The object of defensive play is to block the progress of the offense and, if possible, win back possession of the ball.

2. 

   Linebackers usually play behind the line of scrimmage.

   The defense consists of a defensive line--the players who form the line of scrimmage opposite the offensive line--the linebackers and the defensive backs (safeties and cornerbacks). The linebackers, as the name suggests, line up behind the defensive line, although occasionally a linebacker will join the line with the intention of rushing the offensive quarterback. The number of linebackers on the field during any play will vary according to strategy, but the typical number is three.

3. Linebackers take up a "two-point" stance about two to five yards behind the line of scrimmage. They stand with their feet apart and one slightly advanced, with knees flexed, so that they can respond quickly when the ball is snapped and the play begins.

Linebacker Strategy

1. 

   Linebackers must be strong tacklers.

   The middle linebacker takes up a position centrally behind the line of scrimmage. Outside linebackers are placed toward the end of the line. The outside linebacker positioned opposite the stronger end of the offensive line--where the offensive tight end lines up - is called the strong side linebacker. The outside linebacker opposite the weaker end of the offensive line is called the weak side linebacker.

2. Middle and outside linebackers have different roles in general and also have specific assignments on individual plays. Strong side linebackers expect to defend against running plays by the running back or tight end. Weak side linebackers are more often called upon to defend against passing plays. Middle linebackers have a more versatile role and are expected to be good tacklers.

3. Linebackers are often involved in the "blitz," a play in which they seek to penetrate or run around the offensive line with the intention of tackling (sacking) the quarterback before he can release the ball. For the blitz, linebackers or defensive backs move close behind the defensive line with the intention of outnumbering the offensive line when the ball is snapped.

Training for Linebackers

1. Because of the need to tackle offensive players, linebackers need to be strong and courageous. In addition, because linebackers are often called upon to defend against speedy running backs or wide receivers, they need to be fast runners over short distances.

2. Strength can be improved through weight training. Linebackers concentrate not only on upper body strength, but also on developing the leg strength necessary for hitting opposition players at speed when tackling.

3. Linebackers also practice speed drills. The objective is not just to cover ground at speed, but also to develop the agility to move laterally at speed and change direction in response to offensive plays.

References

• "Football: The Basics"; Jeffrey W. Schaeffer; 2003