Football is a unique sport. It is not unique just because of the rules that are in place, nor the type of outfit players wear. It is unique in the way that it is one of the few sports that involve a lot of physical contact. People who wish to play football are put in a position that best fits their physical abilities. Heavier players are usually assigned to a lineman position which involves blocking the opposite team from passing the line, while lighter and faster players usually are assigned to a position that involves more running or throwing of the ball.
Positions in American football and Canadian football | |||||||
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Offense | Defense | Special teams | |||||
Linemen | Guard, Tackle, Center | Linemen | Tackle, End, Nose tackle | Kicking players | Placekicker, Punter, Kickoff specialist | ||
Quarterback | Linebackers | Snapping | Long snapper, Holder | ||||
Backs | Halfback (Tailback), Fullback, H-back | Backs | Cornerback, Safety | Returning | Punt returner, Kick returner | ||
Receivers | Wide receiver, Tight end, Slotback | Nickelback, Dimeback | Tackling | Gunner |