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

Rookie seventh round pick Zeek Biggers stuffed Gordon in the backfield for a loss. —Barry Jackson, Miami Herald, 3 June 2025

The key to Nix and Harvey’s connection in Denver’s backfield will be Harvey’s ability to blossom in the passing game. —Luca Evans, Denver Post, 2 June 2025

The Jaguars, Giants, Browns and Cowboys all need help in the backfield right now, either in the form of a true starter or a strong, complementary No. 2. —Nick Baumgardner, New York Times, 29 May 2025

Despite the former Penn State Nittany Lion ruling the league last season in Philadelphia’s backfield and the Eagles dethroning the Kansas City Chiefs in dominating fashion in the Super Bowl, Saquon landing in Philly last year wasn’t a sure thing. —Scott King, Forbes.com, 28 May 2025

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