How to Play the Defensive Lineman Position

The defensive lineman, being the first line of defense, are an integral part of a football team's defense. The defensive line which consists of defensive tackles (they line up in the center of the field generally within a few feet of the center) and defensive ends (they line up on the on edge of the offensive line). The defensive lineman, generally the biggest players on defense, have two main jobs. In general terms the defensive lineman are responsible for corralling the running backs and pressuring quarterbacks.

Things You'll Need

  • Football
  • Football pads
  • Football spikes
  • Football players
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Instructions

    • 1
      The interior defensive lineman use a three-point stance to get leverage over offensive lineman.

      Get into a three-point stance. A player is in a three-point stance when he is leaning forward and contacting the ground with one hand and two-feet. When you are in your stance, you must be properly aligned whether you are playing one gap, two-gap or lined up on the edge as a defensive end.

    • 2
      Proper alignment is key to any defensive system.

      Quickly get off the ball. When the ball is snapped it is imperative that you get up off your three-point stance quickly and move toward the line of scrimmage.

    • 3
      Defensive lineman engage with offensive lineman to get momemtum.

      Engage with the offensive lineman as soon as the ball is snapped. When you initially engage, the engagement helps you get momentum with the lineman, roll your hips and extend your arms.

    • 4
      Defenses use several schemes and systems, such as a 3-4, 4-3, or a 2-5-2.

      Escape the offensive lineman's block by using a a rip or swim move. You must shed the offensive lineman's block so that you can go make a play. Once you are past the offensive lineman's hips, you have him beat.

    • 5
      After battling the offensive lineman, defensive lineman must pursue the ball carrier.

      Pursue the ball carrier. When pursuing the ball carrier, use a clearly defined path. You don't want to take bad angles or over pursue.

    • 6
      Tackling a player behind the line of scrimmage is the most rewarding part of defense.

      Tackle the ball carrier. Tackling the ball carrier is the final and most important part of the defensive lineman's job. You must tightly wrap the ball carrier up, so he doesn't escape your grasp.