Tackle (American football position)
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A tackle is the strong position on the offensive line. They power their blocks with quick steps and maneuverability. The tackles are mostly in charge of the outside protection. If the tight end goes out for a pass, the tackle must cover everyone that his guard isn’t, plus what the tight end isn’t covering in case his man comes in to make pressure. Usually they defend against defensive ends.
The left tackle is usually the team's best pass blocker. Most often he will protect the quarterback's blindside (if the quarterback is right-handed) on passing plays and usually will have better footwork and agility than the Right Tackle in order to counter-act the pass rush of defensive ends.
The right tackle is usually the team's best run blocker. Most running plays are towards the strong side (the side with the Tight End) of the offensive line. Consequently the Right Tackle will face the defending team's best run stoppers. He must be able to gain traction in his blocks so that the running back can find a hole to run through.
Notable Tackles
- Orlando Pace
- Tony Boselli
- Walter Jones
- Jon Ogden
- Robert Gallery
- Jon Runyan
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