by Brian Williams

Created on: October 23, 2008   Last Updated: October 28, 2008

To play defense in the game of football, you don't only have to be aggressive, but strategic. Football isa multi-tasked sport that requires balance and philosophy. There are at least, 7 different types of defensive formations you can play in football. Depending on your style of play, you can use the defensive lineman, linebackers or defensive backs exclusively to gain an edge.

The 7 defensive formations are the 4-3, 3-4, 46, nickel, dime, cover 2, and quarter defensive packages. The 4-3 features the defensive lineman, 2 defensive ends, 2 defensive tackles, 3 linebackers, and 4 defensive backs. The 3-4 features the linebackers. The outside and middle linebackers, only 2 defensive ends and one tackle with 4 defensive backs. The 46 was invented by Buddy Ryan, the defensive coordinator of the 1985 Super Bowl Champion Chicago Bears. This defense allows linebackers and defensive lineman line up at the line of scrimmage and blitz. With only 5 offensive lineman, the fullback and halfback in the backfield can be mismatched by a defensive lineman or linebacker. These formations are called run defenses.

If you are someone who likes speed and timing, the nickel, dime, cover 2, and quarter packages are great pass defenses. Unlike the the previous defenses I mentioned, these packages require more cornerbacks. The cornerback will try to jam, or in other words bump the wide receiver into the wrong direction. If successful, the safeties can place a solid tackle on the receiver. The nickel has 3 cornerbacks, the dime 4, and the quarter 5 cornerbacks. There's only a free safety and a strong safety to help intercept or enforce a strong tackle on an unsuspecting receiver. These formations are considered as passing defenses.

In conclusion, defense in football, is a physical chess match. Good tacklers will play with run defenses. People with great catching skills will excel in pass defenses. The cover 2 defends passing lanes, while the 46 is a run blitz philosophy. In defensive football, you must be discipline. If you are well organized, obidient and a motivator, the game of football is a great hobby for you!

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