What Is A Fb & Lb In Football?

The wide array of positions in football are frequently expressed in two-letter abbreviations. The abbreviation FB, for example, stands for fullback, while LB means linebacker in football parlance. Each of these positions has evolved considerably over the years, with the modern versions featuring numerous variations depending upon the type of system in which they are employed.

Fullback Basics

The fullback lines up in the offensive backfield, set up behind the quarterback with the halfback -- also known as the tailback. The halfback has traditionally run the football more frequently, often with the benefit of the fullback blocking in front of him. When fullbacks do run the ball, it is typically in short-yardage situations where their larger size can be used to power through for reliable short gains, according to Sports Illustrated's Football Book.

Potential Extinction

Although many fullbacks can be used to catch the ball coming out of the backfield, some feel the position is doomed to disappear from the majority of offensive sets. An article first published on NFL.com identified variations on the spread offense -- using additional receivers -- as well as double tight end sets as the most frequent reasons for leaving the fullback out of the offensive equation. Stalwarts will contend, however, that the fullback is necessary for any consistent running game and for the protection of the quarterback on passing plays.

Linebacker Basics

The Ann Arbor Chronicle mentions that it was University of Michigan head football coach Fielding Yost who invented the position of linebacker in the early 20th century. Linebackers position themselves just behind the defensive line and can play run defense, drop back into pass coverage or rush the quarterback depending on the defensive scheme on any given play. The best linebackers possess a balance of strength and speed that allows them to fulfill this range of roles.

Variations

The number of linebackers can range from two to four. When three are employed, the outside linebackers are tabbed as either strong side or weak side. Sports Illustrated points out that the strong side in a defensive set is the side where the tight end is lined up. Teams are likely to use two- or three-linebacker sets when they want to have more linemen in place to fill gaps and stop the run. Four-linebacker formations work better when a defense frequently needs extra help in pass coverage -- particularly on intermediate and short routes.