Guard (gridiron football) facts for kids
A guard (also called an offensive guard or OG) is a player in gridiron football. They stand on the line of scrimmage between the center and the tackles. Their main job is to block opposing players.
There are two types: right guards (RG) on the right side of the center, and left guards (LG) on the left side. Guards help protect the quarterback from defenders during pass plays. They also create open paths, called "holes," for running backs to run through. Guards usually cannot catch a forward pass unless it's a special situation.
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What Guards Do on the Field
Guards are very important players on the offensive line. They work together with the center and tackles to form a strong wall. This wall protects the quarterback when they are trying to throw the ball.
Guards also help the running backs. They block defenders to create open spaces, or "holes," in the defense. These holes allow the running back to run forward and gain yards for their team.
Pulling Guards: A Special Move
Sometimes, a guard will do a special move called "pulling." When a guard pulls, they quickly step back from their starting spot. Then, they run behind the other offensive linemen. Their goal is to get in front of a running back and block a defender who is farther away.
This move is often used for runs that go wide, towards the outside of the field. It's also used in "counter plays," where the ball goes in one direction but the blockers move in another. Vanderbilt coach Dan McGugin is often given credit for first using this technique.
Tackles can also pull, but it's less common. Guards are often the best players for pulling because of their position. They can quickly move to block defenders on either side of the field.
Famous Pulling Guards: The Packers Sweep
One of the most famous plays using pulling guards was the "Packers sweep." This play was a signature move for the Green Bay Packers in the 1960s. The Packers won five NFL championships and the first two Super Bowls with this play.
The pulling guards for the Packers were Fuzzy Thurston on the left side and Hall of Famer Jerry Kramer on the right side. They were key to the team's success.
Images for kids
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The positioning of the offensive guards in an offensive formation.
See also
In Spanish: Guard para niños
