A fullback is a member of the offensive backfield in gridiron football. The fullback’s main job is to lead the way for the running back, either by blocking defenders in front of him or by catching passes. Fullbacks are sometimes also used as short-yardage runners or as blockers on special teams.
The term “fullback” is thought to have originated in rugby football. In the 1860s, rugby football split into two different camps: the “rugby union” game, which allowed only handling of the ball, and the “rugby league” game, which permitted carrying and running with the ball. The first use of the term “fullback” in American football is thought to be in 1892, when an Inter-State Football League player named Walter Camp referred to Harry M. Beecher of the Allegheny Athletic Association as “the fullback”.
What is a fullback in football
What is a fullback in football? A fullback (US) or full-back (UK) is a gridiron football position. The fullback lines up behind the quarterback and blocking for the running back. Fullbacks are usually larger than halfbacks and are considered strong runners. They are also good receivers out of the backfield, though they rarely catch passes unless they are lined up in the slot. Fullbacks generally serve as blockers for their team’s running game and short-yardage plays, although they occasionally carried the ball themselves.
The position has been largely phased out of American football in favor of the spread offense, but some teams still use fullbacks effectively. In contrast, fullback play is still vital in several other variants of football, most notably rugby league and rugby union. It also remains popular in high school football states such as Texas and Oklahoma.
The history of the fullback position
The fullback position in American football has been around since the sport’s inception in the late 1800s. Early fullbacks were often also the team’s kicker or punter, as those were typically the only players on the field who could kick the ball long distances. The first use of the term “fullback” is thought to be in 1892, when an Inter-State Football League player named Walter Camp referred to Harry M. Beecher of the Allegheny Athletic Association as “the fullback”.
In the early 1900s, fullbacks were often used as short-yardage runners or used primarily for blocking, with only the occasional carry. This began to change in the 1920s, as teams began to utilize the fullback as a more versatile weapon in the offense. Fullbacks began to catch passes out of the backfield and were used more often as runners, particularly in goal-line situations.
How to be a successful fullback in football
In order to be a successful fullback in football, it is important to be a strong runner and blocker. Fullbacks need to have good vision and be able to find holes in the defense. They also need to be able to catch passes out of the backfield and make plays in the passing game.
Successful fullbacks are typically larger than halfbacks and have good speed. They need to be able to run with the ball and make plays in the open field. Fullbacks also need to be good blockers, as they are often called upon to lead the way for the running back.
The future of the fullback position in football
The fullback position in football has been declining in recent years, as teams have shifted to more spread-oriented offenses. Fullbacks are typically not used as much in the passing game and are often replaced by an extra tight end or wide receiver. However, some teams still utilize fullbacks effectively. In contrast, fullback play is still vital in several other variants of football, most notably rugby league and rugby union. It also remains popular in high school football states such as Texas and Oklahoma.
