LINEMAN (AMERICAN FOOTBALL)

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'Lineman' is a position in American football. (See also American and Canadian football position names.) Linemen are the frontline players of the offense or defense of any play during the game. There are always five offensive linemen, not including the tight ends, that are on the line. The number of defensive linemen can vary from three to five players on the line.
The linemen are usually the largest players on the team, with professional players weighing over 300 pounds[1]. A common misconception is that because of their size, linemen are considered overweight and out of shape. Nothing could be further from the truth. Most linemen take years of martial arts for quick hands and feet and are usually the physically strongest players on the field. It is not uncommon to see very fast linemen. One notable fast defensive linemen is Dwight Freeney of the Indianapolis Colts. Despite being 6'1 and 270 lbs., Dwight ran the 40 yard dash in an incredible 4.38 seconds. To put this feat in perspective, consider that most professional running backs run the 40 in 4.3 - 4.5 range. Their physical size is necessary to protect the backfield players, or to push through the opposing line. Linemen are often the unpraised heroes of a game. Without a strong offensive line to guard the quarterback, the running game (and the passing game) are nothing. Without a powerful defensive line, the opposing quarterback is free to pass at his own time, without fear of being sacked. It takes years to become a professional, and even then the lineman must work constantly to better himself. They often work the hardest and push themselves the most, because a lineman must go full-on, 100%, every play. If he does not, the play falls apart.
There are two types of lineman:
offensive linemen and defensive linemen. The offensive linemen comprise the offensive line, while the defensive linemen comprise the defensive line. When an offensive lineman and a defensive lineman are compared to each other, the offensive lineman is usually the larger, stronger. The defensive lineman is the faster, more athletic.
As a side note, linemen are often overlooked in football but are the key factor between a touchdown and losing yards. This includes blocking players downfield for the player running with the ball or protecting the quarterback. Although all of the glory often goes to quarterbacks, the lineman are easily the most important part of a team, as their play usually dictates the tempo of a game.