NCAA
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wide receiver
Two words. Although it technically only refers to receivers set out “wide” from the formation, in everyday speech it can be used to refer even to receivers to usually set up in the slot. For a general audience, if positional specificity is required, informal terms such as primary receiver or secondary target are preferable over
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football positions
American football has numerous types of positions, some of which only exist in certain formations and systems. When unsure of the exact nature of the position, err on the side of the more generalized term, e.g. running back vs. halfback OFFENSE DEFENSE SPECIAL TEAMS quarterback defensive back placekicker running back cornerback punter tailback free safety/strong
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long snapper
Two words. See: football positions
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year/season
Be mindful that “year” and “season” are not synonymous. Year refers to the calendar period between Jan. 1-Dec. 31. Season refers to the period of time designated by a league or governing body, at the end of which a champion usually is crowned, followed by an offseason. When referring to the NFL, NBA, or NHL,
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signed/traded/agreed
When reporting on contracts and player movement, be mindful of wording. Do not report that a player has “signed” or been “traded” unless the source uses that language. For instance, none of the following examples indicate a signing or trade being consummated. The Lakers and Pelicans are finalizing details on a trade that would send
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dime defense
A defensive personnel formation with six defensive backs. On subsequent reference, simply dime is acceptable.
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46 defense
Typically a variant of the 4-3 defense characterized by a hybrid strong safety/linebacker to put eight defenders in or near the box. On subsequent reference, simply 46 is acceptable.
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nickel defense
A defensive personnel formation with five defensive backs, commonly in 4-2-5 (four down linemen, two linebackers, five backs) and 3-3-5 (three down linemen, three linebackers, five backs) variants. On subsequent references in copy, nickel is acceptable.