Defensive line

The defensive line (DL) consist of 3 to 6 players depending on the down and distance for the offense. Just like the offensive line, these players are normally larger than the rest of the positions but some are a little thinner than offensive linemen. The size difference between O-linemen and D-linemen is best explained like this; the O-line has to take up space and block while the D-line has to be more athletic and agile to get between, through or around the O-line.

When there are fewer D-linemen (about 3 to 4) then the defense is most likely trying to stop short or long passes by bringing in more linebackers or defensive backs even though they can still try to stop the run. When there are more D-linemen then the defense is probably trying to stop the run, and when they bring in more lineman then there are less linebackers or defensive backs. The amount of linemen affects each persons job so each D-lineman's job varies depending on the play and set up.



In the image below you see a complete offense and defense.The defense is called a 5-2 because there are 5 down linemen and 2 linebackers. But I would like for you to focus on the D-linemen in this post so you can see where they basically line up. Bellow the image there is a description of the D-line positions.

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Names to know:

Defensive end (DE): There are two D-ends that line up on a standard play. The D-end's basic job is to rush around the widest Offensive lineman to try to get to the QB or RB. They also have to try to keep the ball carrier inside of them, better known as outside contain. In this situation, outside contain better explained is just keeping the person with the ball from going around all the linemen.

Defensive tackle (DT): There are normally two D-tackles on a play but like I explained, it varies. The D-tackle lines up between the ends and they try to stop the run and pass.

Nose tackle or nose guard: The D-lineman who lines heads up or just to the left or right of the center before the play. The job is of course to get into the backfield but a lot of times they are the biggest D-lineman so they can take up space. The nose guard is used to occupy O-linemen so that they cannot block the the linebackers or defensive backs.