How to Be a Good Linebacker

Linebackers work behind a football defensive line and play an essential role as the second level of defense. A linebacker has to rush the passer, tackle a ball carrier and cover the opposition's receivers. Depending on the type of scheme a team uses, three or four linebackers typically take the field for each defensive play. The middle linebacker reads the opposition's formation and calls defensive adjustments, while the outside linebackers have to shed blockers, pursue the ball carrier and defend the open field.

Instructions

    • 1

      Study the offensive formation. As a middle linebacker, relay the alignments called by your defensive coordinator, but stay flexible and prepared to make adjustments based on audibles called by the quarterback. A good linebacker should have a vocal presence and an ability to read the offense based on its positioning prior to the snap.

    • 2

      Wrap up the ball carrier. Linebackers play aggressively, yet remain smart, and make the most of an opportunity to bring down a runner. Broken tackles often result from improper technique and can lead to big plays, so get low to the ground and wrap both arms around the runner to bring him down.

    • 3

      Punish ball carriers that don't grip the ball securely. Forcing a turnover always stops your opponent's drive down the field. Take advantage of an opportunity to strip the ball from the opposition by landing a hard hit and knocking the ball out of a runner's hands.

    • 4

      Pressure the quarterback by blitzing. With time, a good quarterback can pick apart the defense with strong, accurate throws, so put him under pressure and disrupt the play. As the ball unfolds, sprint toward the quarterback. Put your hands up to obscure his vision and harass the quarterback until you can bring him down.

    • 5

      Cover the tight end or running back on passing plays. Linebackers, particularly outside linebackers, must drop back into pass coverage to help their team. Linebackers also need to chase down the ball carrier if the opponent completes a pass.