Football - Part 3b

I neglected to mention, in any of my previous entries, that my position on the Falcons was right defensive tackle. Given my lack of size and experience, I can only assume I was chosen for this position because of my quickness and ferocity. Like a hungry squirrel I would dart between the gaps of offensive linemen, bite at the ankles of opposing running backs, and pounce on any loose fumbles that fell my way.

When I joined the Hawks, I distinctly remember being asked whether I would like to become a "back" or continue serving as a lineman. After several seconds of careful thought, I chose to be a man. For the next four years, except for brief intervals when I was given additional responsibilities, my position was left defensive end. As shown in the picture on the right, in our 5-2 defense, typical in run-heavy leagues like high school football, my primary assignment was containment. (For this and all future pictures in part 3, my number was 65).


As you can see in the next picture, it was my responsibility to work through the lead blockers and, at the very least, force the running back to break back towards the rest of my team.

If I learned anything about the game of football during my freshman year, it is that teams succeed when every member serves a specific role in furtherance of the team's goal. By serving their role, each member earns the trust and respect of the man beside him. It is this respect which I still remember and cherish the most.