backfield

plural backfields · alternative back field

1. The rear part of the field of play, particularly
   1. rareball gamesSynonym of outfield.

      Synonyms: outfield

   2. American footballThe area behind the line of scrimmage occupied before the snap by the team on offense.

      Synonyms: pocket

   3. USball gamesThe area behind either the offensive or defensive line.

      Moving the ball directly out of the backfield is the greatest form of attack there is.

      2000, Derek Smethurst, Soccer Offense for Winning, →ISBN, page 1

      2 more examples

      Cheryl Salisbury[…]moved back to defense, and became a veteran force on the backfield. By 2003 she was captain of the Matildas, but still found enough time to hone her skills for the WUSA[…]

      2012, Barbara Stewart, Helen Stoumbos, Women's Soccer: The Passionate Game, page 92

      “Like you should talk about good soccer, Ethan,” said Joshua, the team's starting keeper. “I bet every girl on the soccer team knows not to go charging on goal from the backfield, ignoring her teammates.”

      2017, Jake Maddox, Eric Stevens, Soccer Stand-off, page 56

2. The players occupying this area.

   Maryland's football team practiced for the third straight day yesterday without its starting backfield.

   1983 Nov. 10, Washington Post, p. E8