Football Back Plates

Question

Do they make a difference when your playing

Answer 1

In three important ways:

1.  Protect your scapula from shattering on contact with a helmet or knee.

2.  Provide valuable additional leverage/support on the shoulder pad support apparatus to diffuse the shock to shoulders and body when you make the hit.

3.  Provide a frame for mounting the pads effectively on the shoulders, and keeping them in place.  

If you're talking about the add-on flex plates that hang off of the shoulder pads, most people don't wear them, other than the occassional RB.  And most of them who use them are protecting a sore spot/existing injury.  A few wear them regardless by choice for safety.  They're probably most valuable to RBs with a spin move, because they will get hit in the back.  

Answer 2

Only when you get hit in the back

Answer 3

Definitely soften a hit. I thought it slowed me down a tick. if youre a receiver, it is a must have. I know as a DB my helmet loved to eat ribs.