So today I wanna talk about why that back plate thingy in football gear ain’t just extra plastic. Learned this the hard way, trust me.
Starting Out Like a Dumbass
Back when I first suited up years ago, I skipped the back plate. Thought it was some overpriced, bulky nonsense slowing me down. Saw some vets wearin’ it during practice and straight up asked: “Why y’all carryin’ that lunch tray?” Coach just shook his head real slow. Got some laughs, some eye rolls.
The “Ah-Crap” Moment
Fast forward to my first real scrimmage game. Thinkin’ I was slick dodgin’ tackles. Then BAM! Some linebacker sized dude blindsided me. Got SMACKED right in the kidney area from behind. Went down like a sack of potatoes. Air whooshed right outta me. Felt like I got kicked by a horse, swear. Couldn’t breathe right for a solid minute.
Got helped off the field. Trainer lifted my jersey and poked around. Saw the whole sideline cringe. Bruise bloomed later – nasty purple and red, angry lookin’. Hurt like hell bending over even days after. Couldn’t cough without wincing.
Swallowing Pride & Actually Trying It
Next practice, coach slammed that back plate on the bench right in fronta me. Didn’t say a word. Just stared. So I jammed it into my shoulder pads, grumbling bout feelin’ like a turtle.
First thing I noticed:
- It ain’t heavy like I thought. Barely felt it once pads were strapped.
- Covered my whole lower back, ribs down past the hips.
- Hard plastic outside kinda slid instead of gripin’ turf when I fell.
- Thick foam inside – like sittin’ on a memory foam mattress for your spine.
Getting Hit AGAIN (On Purpose?)
Coach must’ve told somebody, cause that same damn linebacker came at me full tilt again during drills. Same cheap shot, blindsided kidney shot.
Difference?
- Heard a THUD, not a CRACK.
- Stumbled forward, but stayed UP. Still had wind.
- Felt pressure, not pain. Like a shove, not a spear.
Got back to the huddle. Lined up smirkin’. Back plate did its job. Felt smug as hell. That linebacker looked confused. Trainer checked me after – bruised pride mostly. Zero problem spots.
Now? Won’t Play Without It
After that? I preach that back plate gospel like it’s the word. Young guys try that “it’s uncomfortable” or “slows me down” crap? Tell ’em bend over while I poke their kidneys. Shuts ’em up quick.
Simple truth:
- You can’t see hits comin’ from behind.
- You land hard.
- Kidneys ain’t armored.
That cheap piece of plastic ain’t about feelin’ good. It’s about walkin’ off the field instead of bein’ carried. Feel the thud, not the damage. Worth every ounce.