Linebackers have to always be reading plays pre-snap and calling out assignments. One of the linebacker's jobs is to call out plays, formations, and responsibilities before the offense snaps the ball. Linebackers must learn and continually practice on basic tackling skills so they can stop running backs in their track or knock them considerably off course so they don't gain more yards. Running backs that can get through the line of scrimmage will be looking to either make a juke move to avoid a linebacker altogether or initiate contact and break free for yards after contact. Linebackers will have to shed some blockers, of course, but they'll be able to avoid the brunt of the blocks since they don't line up directly opposite an offensive lineman. This makes it extremely difficult for them to make tackles by themselves. Linebackers have to not only deliver devastating hits to stop ball carriers in their tracks, but they have to wrap up and take them to the ground.Īll defensive players indeed need to learn how to tackle, but it's especially important for linebackers.ĭefensive linemen are almost always being occupied by an offensive lineman. Perhaps the most important football-specific skill a linebacker needs to have is the ability to tackle. Let's take a look at what makes a great linebacker. They can completely change the direction of a defense just by being on the field. Great linebackers can have a monumental impact on a football game. If they don't do this fast enough, they risk being out of position which could result in a huge play for the offense. Linebackers have to read the play and react quickly before the play goes by them. On every play, linebackers have two responsibilities - one thing if it's a running play and one if it's a passing play. One of the most challenging parts about playing linebacker is having to read the offensive play before reacting. They also must be physical enough to shed blocks from big offensive linemen and strong enough to deliver impact hits that stop ball carriers in their tracks. Linebackers need to have a lot of speed to be able to run all over the field chasing down ball carriers, plugging holes along the line of scrimmage, and covering receivers who are running routes. Linebackers are often thought of as the leaders on the defense - especially the middle linebacker, who's often responsible for calling plays. Not only is it very physically demanding, but it's very mentally demanding as well. Linebacker is one of the most challenging positions to play.
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