backfield

noun

back·​field ˈbak-ˌfēld How to pronounce backfield (audio)
: the football players whose positions are behind the line of scrimmage
also : the positions themselves

Examples of backfield in a Sentence

a tackle made in the backfield The team has a strong backfield.
Recent Examples on the Web Brown, 26, has the versatility to play outside and inside, and he can even be used in the backfield if called upon. Mike Kaye, Charlotte Observer, 5 Mar. 2024 The Dolphins have used their receivers in the backfield under head coach Mike McDaniel. Daniel Oyefusi, Miami Herald, 1 Mar. 2024 Beck should have more help as well with incoming Florida transfer Trevor Etienne likely making a large impact in the Bulldogs' backfield. Jon Hoefling, USA TODAY, 10 Jan. 2024 But some carries or backfield work could go to playoff-mode Deebo Samuel. Cam Inman, The Mercury News, 11 Feb. 2024 Dave Roberts will hold a scrum near the backfields, answering questions and updating reporters on that day’s information. Houston Mitchell, Los Angeles Times, 8 Feb. 2024 The Lions, with Barry Sanders in the backfield and Lomas Brown and Kevin Glover on the offensive line, finished in the top 11 in the NFL in rushing in four of Wampfler's five seasons with the team. Dave Birkett, Detroit Free Press, 31 Jan. 2024 Gibbs has been dynamic out of the backfield and could continue his scoring streak of eight touchdowns in his last seven games. Ayrton Ostly, USA TODAY, 28 Jan. 2024 In the preseason and the first two weeks of the regular season, the Dolphins used him in a nontraditional role, getting carries and snaps out of the backfield. Daniel Oyefusi, Miami Herald, 5 Feb. 2024

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'backfield.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1897, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of backfield was in 1897

Dictionary Entries Near backfield

Cite this Entry

“Backfield.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/backfield. Accessed 19 Mar. 2024.

Kids Definition

backfield

noun
back·​field -ˌfēld How to pronounce backfield (audio)
: the football players who line up behind the line of scrimmage
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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