what should a linebacker be able to do?

Question

what is a LB go into..
DL or DB?

Answer 1

Dpends on the linebacking position and the scheme. From a skills standpoint they need to have good vision, read plays quickly and keep blockers off their legs. Lateral movement is important and the ability to contain a play (i.e., keep the play within the scheme design....if you have outside contain then you must be able to keep outside leverage on the blocker to force the play back into the inside where the rest of the team is waiting). If the play calls for you to force a guy into an outside lane you must be able to keep the blocker on the offside shoulder so you can force the runner out to the waiting defenders or the sideline. Some linebackers will be called on to provide outside rush or zone blitz rush, other times linebackers are required to drop into a zone coverage or take a tight end in man coverage. So each scheme or defensive package may require a different skill set which is why you see so many pro teams that use 5 or 6 linebackers rotating....they move in and out depending on down and distance along with the defensive play that might be called. The real good ones can do it all, most linebackers are good at a particular skill set but the basic skills are read, shed blockers, understand scheme (and maintain proper positioning, when linebackers dont maintain discipline the end result is usually a big play) and quickness.

Answer 2

A linebacker can have multiple roles depending on what scheme you play and what LB position you play. Middle linebackers are the generals on the field, they should know offenses tendencys as well as a running back vision. You need to know were the hole is gonna form before it does so you will be thier before he does. A MLB must have great hand and footwork you need to shake blocks using both as well as getting rid of fullback crashing through a hole. Key the guards they will bring you to the play. AN MLB needs to be quick, powerful, and agile. You need to pass rush effectively by bull rushing as well as using a rip or a swim move to pentetrate the line.
Outside LBs can have a bunch of roles but they are typically faster more agile and better at pass coverage.Vision again is key and an uderstanding of thier postion and angles of attack to use. Understanding your limitations are decisions that you made the instant you see them and understanding were to intercept the ball carrier is important. All of this must become instinct and it will with expirence reading the field is something that some people have and others dont it cannot be learned. Being a linebacker requires you to be an athlete you need to be strong, flexible, agile, explosive (the most important i believe), fast, and smart. If you are willing to take on these rsponsibilities than its a reqarding position. You must help your teammates understand they can do it and you are the leader of the pack and they will look upon you for this. Displaying confidence will inspire your team mates and they will follow your lead. this is what makes good LBs good leaders. Also never forget your line they will protect you and make sure you get the glory so thank them and make sure they know its them you appreciate the most.

Answer 3

To me a linebacker should be able to have the speed to get the runner. A linebacker should have enough strength to not get run over by the running back. A linebacker should be able to deflect passes and play pass coverage. Finally a linebacker should be able to rush through the offensive line.

Answer 4

a linebacker needs to be the smartest person on the field, he needs to read and react. quick on his feet and quick in his head, all linebackers need to know good pursuit angles, good tackle form, and need to be able to cover an are of field if necessary. they are the smartest and most well oiled people on the field

Answer 5

a good linebacker needs to be able to break through the offensive line but also stay back when he needs to.he needs to hit the quarterback a few times and put fear into him!

Answer 6

Depends on what kind... Middle? Hit really hard, rush defense.
Left or Right? Hit hard, 1/2 rush defense, 1/2 short pass defense