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

Watson will miss Saturday’s game against Arizona State, leaving the Knights shorthanded in the backfield. — Matt Murschel, The Orlando Sentinel, 12 Nov. 2026

He’s credited with creating the line of scrimmage, downs, the snap from center, and the points system, as well as the seven-man line and four-man backfield with a quarterback. — Kels Dayton, Hartford Courant, 9 Nov. 2026

Thank goodness, in other words, for the backfield being able to get up field. — Sam McDowell, Kansas City Star, 9 Nov. 2026

To’oTo’o got into the backfield for two important tackles for loss. — Jonathan M. Alexander, Houston Chronicle, 8 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