4-4 or 40 base defense in football?

Question

I'm trying to understand this defense but my comprehension sucks..we used to run a 6-2 which I was told is similar..but listen to how its supposed to run is driving me crazy..do anyone have any tips

Answer 1

Just means 4 lineman, and 4 linebackers.

Answer 2

4 linemen maybe 3 safety with double coverage to protect the run or pass. sometimes called a swarm defense because your swarming the backs and wide outs. 5/2 or 6/2 is 5 or 6 linemen 2 safety but pretty much using top talent with limited backup to broaden team needs. Mostly will see 5 /2 or 6/2 defense in A, AA, or AAA football in small states where the Varsity pulls JV players for backup or college 2 down plays. meaning 2 downs full players 2 downs backup players.  

Answer 3

4-4 is 4 linebackers or 3 with a safety and its gap control which means there is usually someone assigned to multiple gaps at 1 time

Answer 4

4-4 is to use against the run.  4 down linemen, 4 linebackers, and 3 Defensive backs.  6-2 is similar in tht you have the same ammount of front 8, but the 4-4 would utalise a zone that could be used for pass protection better.