Dime

Defense

also: dime package · quarter package

Six defensive backs. The package past nickel, used when the defense has decided the offense is throwing and has stopped pretending otherwise.

A sixth defensive back comes on, normally for a second linebacker. The name continues the coin joke: nickel is five backs, dime is two nickels and therefore six.

Beyond dime some programs use quarter for seven defensive backs, mostly at the college and professional levels. Dime trades some run-defense size for another coverage player, which can invite the offense to run if the situation allows it.

Also calleddime package
Not to be confused withnickel, quarter package

Where you will hear it

  • pass-defense packages at high school level and above

Related terms