football positions

Question
What is the responsibility of the Z Back in football? I've never heard of this position.

Answer
Dear Tanner:
The offense has 3 receivers known as X-Y-Z.

X (wide receiver) lineup on the line of scrimmage about 8-yards outside the offensive tackle.

Y (tight end) lineup on the line of scrimmage next to the tackle on the other side of the same line. The side he lines up on is known as the strong side. This is because there are more linemen on his side of the formation than the other.

Z (is the other wide receiver) he lines up just back off the line of scrimmage. This is why he is known as the Z-back or wingback. Sometimes he is used as a third running back and or wide receiver.

I hope this explanation was of help to you. If not, please let me know. I would be more than happy to give it another try.

Your friend, Coach Louis