Cornerback facts for kids
A cornerback is an important player on the defense in American football. Their main job is to stop the other team's wide receivers from catching the football. Cornerbacks usually stand near the edges of the field. They are often directly across from the wide receivers they need to guard.
Contents
What Does a Cornerback Do?
Cornerbacks are part of the defensive back group. They have several key tasks during a game:
- They try to stop receivers from catching passes.
- They can intercept (catch) passes thrown by the other team's quarterback.
- They can deflect (knock down) passes so receivers cannot catch them.
- They also help to tackle players who have the ball.
- Sometimes, they might even try to rush the passer (run towards the quarterback) to make them throw the ball quickly.
How Do Cornerbacks Cover Receivers?
There are two main ways cornerbacks guard receivers:
Zone Defense
In zone defense, a cornerback is given a specific area of the field to protect. Their job is to make sure no opposing player catches the ball in their assigned zone. If a receiver enters their zone, the cornerback will cover them. Once the receiver leaves that zone, another defender in the next zone will take over.
Man Defense
In man defense, a cornerback is assigned to guard one specific wide receiver. They follow that receiver all over the field. Their goal is to stay close to that receiver and prevent them from catching any passes. It's like a one-on-one challenge!
Images for kids
-
A cornerback for Trinity College rises to intercept a pass
-
Green Bay Packers cornerback Charles Woodson (21) covering San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Randy Moss (84).
See also
In Spanish: Cornerback para niños
