American football, a thrilling collision of strategy and athleticism, hinges on a fundamental aspect the tackle.
As players engage in the gridiron battle, understanding what constitutes a tackle is vital not only for the athletes themselves but also for fans. In this blog post, we will unravel what counts as a tackle in football.
Tackling in football is more than just a physical act; it’s a pivotal moment that can change the course of a game.
But what defines a tackle? Is it simply making contact with the ball carrier, or are there more nuances to it? We will explore the various aspects, from tackle technique to legalities, and dive into how tackles are recorded in statistics.
Join us on this journey through the dynamic world of American football as we break down what counts as a tackle and gain a deeper appreciation for this essential element of the sport. Stay focused.
What Is A Tackle In American Football?
In American football, a tackle is a fundamental defensive maneuver where a player from the defending team physically stops the progress of the ball carrier from the opposing team.
The primary objective of a tackle is to bring the ball carrier to the ground to end their advance and prevent them from gaining more yards or scoring a touchdown.
A successful tackle typically involves one or more defensive players using their bodies to make contact with the ball carrier, often aiming for the legs or torso, and then wrapping their arms around the opponent to secure the tackle.
Tackling is a critical aspect of the game, as it can halt the offensive team’s momentum, force a loss of yardage, or even result in a turnover if the ball carrier fumbles.
Proper tackling technique is essential for both player safety and defensive success in American football.
What Counts As A Tackle In Football?
In American football, what counts as a tackle can vary slightly depending on the rules of the sport. Here’s an explanation in brief:
American Football (Gridiron Football)
In American football, a tackle is counted when a defensive player physically brings down the ball carrier from the opposing team. To be considered a tackle, the following criteria are typically met:
- The defensive player makes physical contact with the ball carrier.
- The contact causes the ball carrier to be brought to the ground.
- The play is blown dead by the referees to indicate that the ball carrier’s progress has been stopped.
It’s important to note that tackles can occur anywhere on the field, and the primary objective is to stop the ball carrier’s advance, preventing them from gaining additional yards or scoring.
Fundamental Tackling Techniques
Fundamental tackling techniques are crucial for both player safety and defensive success in football, whether it’s American football or other sports.
Here are some fundamental tackling techniques:
Shoulder Tackle
This is a basic and safe tackling technique where the defender uses their shoulder to make contact with the ball carrier’s midsection while wrapping their arms around the opponent.
The goal is to bring the ball carrier to the ground by driving through them with the shoulder.
Form Tackle
In a form tackle, the defender aims to wrap both arms securely around the ball carrier’s waist or legs, driving through the target and bringing them down with proper form.
This technique emphasizes controlled aggression and minimizing the risk of head injuries.
Head-Up Tackle
Players are taught to keep their heads up and eyes on the opponent during a tackle to reduce the risk of head and neck injuries. Leading with the crown of the helmet is prohibited and can result in penalties and injuries.
Wrap and Roll
After making contact, the defender wraps the arms around the ball carrier and rolls them to the ground, ensuring a secure tackle while minimizing the chance of the ball carrier breaking free.
Angle Tackle
This technique involves taking the correct angle to the ball carrier to cut off their path and force them toward the sideline or into other defenders.
Legalities of Tackling in American Football
Tackling in American football is a fundamental aspect of the game, but it must be executed within the legal boundaries set by the rules and regulations of the sport. Here are some key legalities of tackling in American football:
Target Zone
When tackling, defenders must aim for the opponent’s target zone, which is generally defined as the area from the mid-chest to just above the knees.
Striking an opponent outside this target zone can result in penalties, especially if it involves helmet-to-helmet contact or hits to the head or neck area.
Helmet-to-Helmet Contact
Deliberate helmet-to-helmet contact is often prohibited and can result in personal foul penalties, such as “targeting.”
Targeting penalties can lead to ejections from the game, particularly if the contact is deemed intentional or excessively dangerous.
Leading with the Helmet
Initiating contact by leading with the crown of the helmet is illegal and can result in penalties for unnecessary roughness or targeting.
Players are taught to keep their heads up and tackle with their shoulders and arms to reduce head and neck injuries.
Late Hits
Hitting an opponent after the play is over or after the quarterback has released the ball (in the case of a passer) is considered a late hit and can lead to personal foul penalties for roughing the passer or unnecessary roughness.
Horse Collar Tackles
Grabbing an opponent by the back of their shoulder pads or jersey (the “horse collar”) and yanking them to the ground is illegal and can result in a personal foul penalty.
Face Mask Penalties
Grabbing and twisting an opponent’s face mask, which is the protective grill on the front of the helmet, is prohibited and results in a face mask penalty.
Spear Tackles
A spear tackle, where a player launches themselves headfirst at an opponent, is illegal and dangerous. It can lead to penalties, ejections, and significant injury risks.
Defenseless Players
Special rules protect “defenseless players,” such as receivers attempting to catch a pass, kick returners, or a quarterback after a throw. Hitting these players in a way that endangers their safety can result in penalties.
Unnecessary Roughness
The rules against unnecessary roughness are intentionally broad to discourage overly aggressive or dangerous behavior. Officials have discretion in determining what constitutes unnecessary roughness.
It’s important to note that the specific rules and interpretations can change over time, and officials may vary in their judgment.
Players and coaches are responsible for understanding the current rules and teaching proper tackling techniques to prioritize safety while remaining effective on the field.
How Tackles Are Tracked And Recorded in Football Statistics?
In American football, tackles are tracked and recorded in various ways to keep detailed statistics of players’ performance. Here’s how tackles are typically recorded in football statistics:
Official Game Statistics
In professional and college football, a team of official statisticians is responsible for recording and tracking statistics during the game.
These statisticians are located in the press box and have access to multiple camera angles, live feeds, and communication with on-field officials to gather accurate data.
Play-by-Play Records
Statisticians maintain a detailed play-by-play record of the game. They document each play, including who carried the ball, who threw the pass, who caught it, and who made the tackle.
This record is the foundation for compiling player and team statistics.
Television Broadcasts
Television broadcasts of football games often display on-screen graphics that provide real-time statistics, including tackles.
These graphics are based on the official game statistics and can give viewers information about which player made a tackle on a particular play.
Coaches and Teams
Coaches and teams also track tackles independently for their own analysis and scouting purposes. They may use video footage and game notes to determine who made each tackle.
Post-Game Review
After the game, statisticians review the play-by-play records, consult with officials if necessary, and finalize the statistics. They ensure that each tackle is attributed to the correct player.
Tackle Assist
In addition to solo tackles, many football statistics also track assisted tackles. An assisted tackle is when two or more players contribute to bringing down the ball carrier.
Both the player who initially makes contact and the one who helps complete the tackle are credited with assisted tackles.
Tackle for Loss
Tackles for loss occur when a defensive player tackles the ball carrier behind the line of scrimmage, resulting in a loss of yardage for the offense. These are also recorded as a specific statistic.
Special Teams Tackles
Special teams plays, such as kickoffs and punts, also involve tackling. These tackles are separately recorded as special teams tackles.
Official Box Score
The final tackle statistics are included in the official box score of the game, which is published in various media outlets and used for analysis and reference.
It’s important to note that tackle statistics can vary slightly from one source to another, and there may be some subjectivity involved in determining whether a player receives credit for a tackle or an assisted tackle.
Tackling in Different Positions of American Football
Tackling in American football varies in technique and emphasis depending on a player’s position.
Each position has its own responsibilities and priorities when it comes to tackling. Here’s a breakdown of how tackling differs by position:
Defensive Linemen (Defensive Tackles and Defensive Ends)
- Defensive linemen are typically tasked with disrupting the opposing team’s offensive plays by rushing the quarterback, defending against running plays, and creating pressure on the line of scrimmage.
- Their primary tackling technique often involves engaging with offensive linemen to control gaps and disrupt plays. They use their size and strength to shed blocks and make tackles on ball carriers.
Linebackers
- Linebackers are versatile defenders who play a crucial role in both run support and pass coverage. They are often involved in a wide range of tackles.
- Linebackers use a variety of tackling techniques, including form tackles, shoulder tackles, and wrap-up tackles. They need to quickly diagnose plays and make tackles in open space.
Cornerbacks
- Cornerbacks primarily defend against wide receivers and often have to tackle ball carriers in one-on-one situations in the open field.
- Their tackling technique emphasizes maintaining proper leverage, breaking down in front of the ball carrier, and making sure tackles prevent big gains.
Safeties
- Safeties are the last line of defense and are responsible for making tackles on both running backs and receivers who break into the secondary.
- Safeties are often expected to be sure tacklers, as they need to prevent long gains and touchdowns. They use wrap-up tackles to secure the ball carrier.
Defensive Backs (Nickelbacks, Dimebacks, etc.)
- These defensive backs often play closer to the line of scrimmage and are involved in run support as well as pass coverage.
- They use a combination of techniques, including form tackles and wrap-up tackles, to make stops against both the run and short passing plays.
Offensive Linemen
Offensive linemen are not typically involved in tackling on defense. Their primary role is to protect their quarterback and create running lanes for ball carriers on offense.
Running Backs and Wide Receivers (Ball Carriers)
- While their primary role is not tackling, ball carriers must be prepared for contact and often use stiff arms or evasive moves to avoid tackles.
- When playing defense, they may be asked to make tackles on interceptions or fumbles.
Special Teams Players
- Players on special teams units, such as kick and punt coverage teams, are responsible for tackling returners or disrupting return plays.
- Special teams tackling requires speed, agility, and the ability to quickly close in on returners.
Tackling techniques in American football can vary significantly based on a player’s position and responsibilities.
FAQs
What is considered a tackle in American football?
In American football, a tackle occurs when a defensive player physically brings down the ball carrier from the opposing team, causing the play to be blown dead.
It involves making contact with the ball carrier and stopping their forward progress.
Do assisted tackles count in football statistics?
Yes, assisted tackles are counted in football statistics. An assisted tackle is credited when two or more defensive players contribute to bringing down the ball carrier.
Both the player who initially makes contact and the one who assists receive credit for the tackle.
Is a sack considered a tackle in football?
Yes, a sack is a type of tackle in American football. It occurs when a defensive player tackles the quarterback behind the line of scrimmage, resulting in a loss of yards for the offense. Sacks are recorded as tackles for loss in the statistics.
Does a tackle have to bring the ball carrier to the ground for it to count?
Yes, a tackle in American football requires bringing the ball carrier to the ground. Simply making contact is not enough.
The defender must physically stop the ball carrier’s progress and ensure they are down, as determined by the game officials.
Are there any restrictions on tackling techniques in football?
Yes, there are restrictions on tackling techniques in football. Players are prohibited from using their helmets to initiate contact, targeting the head or neck area, or making late hits.
Leading with the crown of the helmet is illegal and can result in penalties and ejections for dangerous play.
Wrapping Up
In the realm of American football, where every yard counts, understanding the art of tackling is crucial.
We’ve explored the nuances that define a tackle, delving into techniques, positions, and the legalities that govern this fundamental aspect of the game.
From the power of a form tackle to the precision of a cornerback’s stop, tackling is both an art and a science.
As the clock ticks and the game unfolds, remember that each tackle signifies a crucial moment, a defensive stand, or an offensive breakthrough.
Tackles shape the narrative of football, and now, armed with this knowledge, you can watch and appreciate the game on a whole new level.
So, the next time you see a player bring down the ball carrier, you’ll know exactly what counts as a tackle in American football—a testament to skill, strategy, and the relentless spirit of the game. Best wishes.
