backfield

American  

[bak-feeld] / ˈbækˌfild /

noun

Football.

1. (used with a plural verb)  the members of the team who, on offense, are stationed behind the linemen and, on defense, behind the linebackers.

2. their positions considered as a unit.

3. the area where the backs play.

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backfield British  

/ ˈbækˌfiːld /

noun

1. (sometimes functioning as plural) the quarterback and running backs in a team

2. the area behind the line of scrimmage from which the backfield begin each play

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Etymology

Origin of backfield

An Americanism dating back to 1910–15; back ¹ + field

Example Sentences

King Miller had been stellar in the five weeks since being thrust into the lead role in USC’s backfield.

From Los Angeles Times

In addition to their battered backfield, the Trojans have been without left tackle Elijah Paige for half the season because of a knee injury and could be without him again Saturday.

From Los Angeles Times

Ford marshalled his side brilliantly around the field all game, kicking smartly - both to compete and in finding space behind the visitors' backfield.

From BBC

Former England scrum-half Danny Care says the back-to-back grind of the autumn internationals - with four matches on successive weekends - is testing England's strength in depth in the backfield.

From BBC

If we can get Marcus to be that kind of impactful player, then having him in the backfield could be valuable.

From BBC