scrimmage: defense![click to hear](/images/speaker.jpg)
The defense tries to prevent the opponent’s movement toward the end zone by stopping runs and passes.
neutral zone ![click to hear](/images/speaker.jpg)
Gap the equivalent of one ball length, it separates the offense and defense on the line of scrimmage and cannot be crossed before the snap.
left cornerback ![click to hear](/images/speaker.jpg)
Position at the far left of the main defensive line; this player is very fast and usually covers the opposing team’s wide receiver.
left safety ![click to hear](/images/speaker.jpg)
Position behind the main defensive line on the left side of the field; an excellent tackler, this player is often relied on to stop running plays.
left defensive end ![click to hear](/images/speaker.jpg)
Position on the outside of the left defensive tackle; this player pressures the quarterback and tries to stop the outside run.
middle linebacker ![click to hear](/images/speaker.jpg)
Position behind the main defensive line; this player combines speed and size especially to stop running plays in the center of the field.
right safety ![click to hear](/images/speaker.jpg)
Position behind the main defensive line on the right side of the field; this player is used mostly for the ability to cover passes.
outside linebacker ![click to hear](/images/speaker.jpg)
Position near or behind the main defensive line on the right side of the field; agile and versatile, this player is effective against running and passing plays.
right cornerback ![click to hear](/images/speaker.jpg)
Position at the far right of the main defensive line; this player is very fast and covers the opposing team’s wide receiver.
inside linebacker ![click to hear](/images/speaker.jpg)
Position near or behind the main defensive line on the left side of the field; agile and versatile, this player is effective against passing and running plays.
left defensive tackle ![click to hear](/images/speaker.jpg)
Position to the left of the middle linebacker; powerful and tough, this player is especially effective at stopping running plays.
right defensive tackle ![click to hear](/images/speaker.jpg)
Position to the right of the middle linebacker; powerful and tough, this player is especially effective at stopping running plays.
right defensive end ![click to hear](/images/speaker.jpg)
Position to the right of the right defensive tackle; this player pressures the quarterback and tries to stop outside runs.