backfield

noun

back·​field ˈbak-ˌfēld 

: the football players whose positions are behind the line of scrimmage

also : the positions themselves

Examples of backfield in a Sentence

a tackle made in the backfield

The team has a strong backfield.

Recent Examples on the Web

Wash didn’t shy away from discussing how to ensure their defensive linemen spring to the backfield. — Alex Zietlow, Charlotte Observer, 5 Nov. 2026

Starting at their own 44, Nix took a shotgun snap with an empty backfield. — Pete Sweeney, Kansas City Star, 2 Nov. 2026

And yet, Harbaugh’s bargain bin efforts haven’t filled the need in the backfield. — Pat Leonard, New York Daily News, 2 Nov. 2026

Chicago could also be short in the backfield with Kyle Monangai dealing with thumb and toe injuries. — Outkick, FOXNews.com, 2 Nov. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1897, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for backfield

• afield
• airfield
• annealed
• appealed
• brownfield
• coalfield
• concealed
• congealed
• cornfield
• downfield
• goldfield
• hayfield

Kids Definition

backfield

noun

back·​field -ˌfēld 

: the football players who line up behind the line of scrimmage