Typical positions
A typical setup: (keep in mind there is a great deal of flexibility in postions and number of wide receivers vs. running backs, and even more flexiblity with the defensive package)
Offense Defense
|
WR| CB
|
TE | RLB
LT| RE SS
LG|
TB FB QB C| NT MLB
RG| T FS
RT| LE
| LLB
|
WR| CB
|

^
|
Line of scrimmage
(where ball is placed)
Key:
Offense
QB: quarterback (takes ball from center, then passes, runs, or nfl jerseys cheap amazon hands off)
FB: fullback (type of running back, usually blocks)
TB: tailback (type of running back, sometimes carries the ball)
WR: wide receiver
TE: tight end (sometimes catches)
LT & RT: tackles, left and right
LG & RG: guards, left and right
C: center (snaps the ball to QB)






Defense
NT: nose tackle
T: tackle
LE & RE: ends, left and right
LB: linebackers, left, middle and right
CB: cornerbacks
S: safeties, strong and free




On fourth down it is often advisible to punt. Here are the positions on a punt (special teams: punt and punt return units)
Offense Defense (punt return)
|
|
WO |
| DL
LT| DL
FB LG| DL B
P C| DL PR
FB FB RG| DL B
RT| DL
| DL
WO | DL
|

^
|
Line of scrimmage
Key as above plus:
Offense
P: punter
WO: wide out (goal: to tackle returner)


Defense
PR: punt returner
DL: defensive linemen (goal: block punt or block for returner)
B: return blocker (goal: block for returner)


Also part of the special teams are the field goal/point after touchdown (PAT) units:
Kicking Blocking
|
|
WO | DL
LE| DL
LT| DL
LG| DL
K C| DL DS
QB RG| DL
RT| DL
RE| DL
WO | DL
| DL

^
|
Line of scrimmage
Key as above plus:
Kicking team
K: kicker (not the same guy as the punter)
QB: quarterback (catches the snap from center and holds, may also pass in a fake kick)
LE & RE: ends, left and right



Blocking team
DS: defensive safety, (protects against the fake kick)

Hope this helps. Enjoy the bowl games and Happy New Year.