Editing Linebacker (section)

====Strongside linebacker====
The strongside linebacker (SLB) is often nicknamed the "Sam" for purposes of calling a [[Blitz (gridiron football)|blitz]]. Since the strong side of the [[offensive team]] is the side on which the [[tight end]] lines up, or whichever side contains the most personnel, the strongside linebacker usually lines up across from the tight end. Often the strongside linebacker will be called upon to tackle the [[running back]] on a play because the back will be following the tight end's block. He is most often the strongest linebacker; at the least he possesses the ability to withstand, shed, and fight off blocks from a tight end or fullback blocking the backside of a pass play. The linebacker should also have strong [[Safety (American football position)|safety]] abilities in pass situation to cover the tight end in man on man situations. He should also have considerable quickness to read and get into coverage in zone situations.