Offensive guard facts for kids

The positioning of the offensive guards in an offensive formation.

David DeCastro lined up at guard.

In American football and Canadian football, a guard (often called a G) is a player on the offensive line. Guards stand between the center and the tackles. Their main job is to protect the quarterback and help the running backs gain yards.

What is a Football Guard?

A guard is a key player on the offensive side of a football team. They are part of a group of five players called the offensive line. These players work together to block the opposing team's defenders. Guards are usually strong and powerful athletes.

The Offensive Line

The offensive line is the first line of defense for the offense. It includes the center, two guards, and two tackles.

• The center snaps the ball to the quarterback.
• The two tackles play on the outside of the guards.
• The two guards play on either side of the center.

All these players work as a team. They must communicate well to block defenders.

What Do Guards Do?

Guards have two main responsibilities during a football game. They must protect the quarterback from being tackled. They also need to create open paths for running backs.

Protecting the Quarterback

When the quarterback tries to throw the ball, guards must block the defensive line and linebackers. This is called pass blocking. They stand firm and use their strength to stop defenders from reaching the quarterback. A good guard gives the quarterback enough time to find an open receiver and throw the ball. Without good pass blocking, the quarterback might get sacked.

Opening Paths for Runners

When a running back carries the ball, guards help clear a path. This is called run blocking. They push or move defenders out of the way. This creates "holes" or openings for the running back to run through. Sometimes, a guard will even "pull" from their position. This means they run behind the offensive line to block a defender on the other side of the field. This helps create a big running lane.

Skills of a Guard

To be a successful guard, players need a special set of skills.

• Strength: Guards need to be very strong to block large defenders.
• Agility: They must be quick on their feet, especially when pulling.
• Technique: Proper blocking technique is crucial to be effective.
• Intelligence: Guards need to understand plays and react quickly to defensive schemes.
• Teamwork: They must work closely with the rest of the offensive line.

Why Guards are Important

Guards might not always get the spotlight like quarterbacks or running backs. However, they are incredibly important to a team's success. A strong offensive line, including good guards, can make a huge difference. They help the offense score points and win games. Without their hard work, it would be much harder for the offense to move the ball down the field.