What Is A Defensive Tackle? (DT)
Mar 11, 2024A defensive tackle is a position that lines up on the inside of the defensive line.
This position has two primary responsibilities:
1) Pass Rush:
On passing plays this player is responsible for rushing the QB and trying to prevent them from throwing the football by sacking them. A strong pass rush is the foundation of great pass defense.
2) Run Contain:
In the run game, defensive tackles are looking to prevent the offense from running the ball up the middle of the field. Stopping the inside runs, goes a long way to disrupting the opposing teams run game.
Depending on the play call there can be one or two defensive tackles on the field.
This position is also known as the nose tackle or DT.
They are responsible for rushing the quarterback on passing plays and stuffing inside run plays.
Players known for playing this position include Warren Sapp, Vince Wilfork, and Aaron Donald.
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