The acronym FB in football stands for the fullback position. The fullback is an offensive position that is responsible for blocking defenders and carrying the football.
FBs can line up in several different areas on the field but primarily line up in the backfield. Oftentimes the fullback will line up in front of the HB (half back) in order to block for him.
In modern-day football, fullbacks are not used very often. There is at most one fullback on the field in the offense but the majority of offensive formations do not feature one.
In terms of stature, fullbacks are average height and quite bulking. Due to how much blocking this position performs FBs need to carry a lot of weight in order to match up with larger defensive players.
What Does A FB Do In Football?
Now that you’ve learned what a FB is in football you may be wondering what exactly these players do on the field.
Fullbacks have three main duties on the football field. Those duties are run blocking, carrying the football, and pass blocking.
Run Blocking
The main responsibility of the FB position is run blocking. These players are responsible for running out in front of the running back and blocking players that are in their way.
In most cases, FBs are going to block via lead blocking. Lead blocking involves the fullback running through the hole created for the running back first.
Once through the hole, the Fullback will block the player looking to make the tackle. This allows the running back a chance to break free once he has gotten through the hole.
On these plays, FBs will usually have to take on linebackers which is why size is needed in order to play their position effectively.
Pass Protection
On some plays, the FB is going to be tasked with the duty of protecting the quarterback. The fullback will not be the first line of defense as that job is left up to the offensive line.
The fullback will stay in the pocket and simply wait to see if any defensive players are able to make their way through the line.
If a player is able to make his way through the offensive line the fullback must then block them before they reach the quarterback.
Since fullbacks are capable blockers they are usually able to lay an effective block in these situations.
Carry The Ball
Though these players are not primarily used with the ball in their hands some plays involve the fullback being the ball carrier.
The most common reason fullbacks are going to get the ball is going to be because of a short-yardage situation.
For example, if a team was in a third and one situation they will only need one yard to gain the first down. Fullbacks being one of the largest ball carriers can be effective in these situations as their size often allows them to fall forward.
Additionally, fullbacks can also get the ball in passing plays. Most NFL teams do not use their fullbacks as a receiving weapon but teams like the San Francisco 49ers have managed to make their fullback a key part of their offense.
That’s all for the FB position in football check out other similar articles such as our guides to WR, OT, or OG. All positional acronyms can be found on our category page.
