What do the cornerbacks do?

• A. Lead the team in interceptions normally.
• B. Play on the offensive line.
• C. Cover receivers and provide support in stopping the running game, usually.
• D. Call plays.

Answer: (C)

Cornerbacks are defensive backs whose main job is to cover receivers and help stop the run. They line up on the edges and use man or zone coverage to stay with receivers, read the quarterback, and break up or intercept passes. They also come up to support the run defense, providing edge containment and tackling on plays toward the outside. This combination—covering receivers and aiding run defense—captures what they do most of the time.

They don’t block on the offensive line, which is handled by offensive linemen, and they don’t call plays—that duty sits with the coaching staff and sometimes the quarterback. Interceptions can happen, but coverage and run support is the typical, defining role.