nickel back

Extra defensive back

A nickel back is a fifth defensive back in American football, added to the standard four when expecting a pass play.

The name comes from the nickel being worth five cents—one more than the four-cent "dime" coverage.

They brought in the nickel back on third and long.

The position prioritizes speed and coverage ability over run-stopping.

Related

secondary · chase · zone defense · coin · pass · coverage · cornerback · prevent defense · third down · blitz · audible · football · interception · zone · red zone · sack · dropback · backline

Opposites
football defensive personnel

nickel backlinebacker

Second-level defensive position

nose tackle · offensive lineman · running back · fullback

coin denomination in change

nickel backno change

exact change · dime · silver dollar · penny · quarter

rock music reception/authenticity

nickel backRadiohead

British art rock band

Nirvana · critically acclaimed · indie darling · cult favorite · underground

Family

nickel, back, nickels, nickeled, backs, backed, backing, backer, backers

Familiarity
Top 500,000
Profile
Timeless · Concrete · Rated G