As the last line of defense before the keeper, the centerback position has a very important responsibility: stop the ball. These defensive specialists must do everything they can - short of surrendering a PK or receiving a red card - to prevent a scorer from getting the ball past them. In short, these defenders are the biggest, most aggresive "dudes" around.

Not only do they possess the strength and determination to shut down offensive chances, but they also have the intelligence and anticipation to make smart passes that can lead to breakaway opportunities. The bottom line is, if you are trying to build a contender, make sure you include a quality centerback, because, after all, they ARE the bottom line.

The big man in the back was the rock City’s title-winning defense was built on. Tireless and calm, he is nearly impossible to beat in the air and is a quiet leader on a team packed with egos. An integral part of Belgium’s “new generation” of talent, Kompany can play multiple positions on the field but is most effective in the heart of the defense.

The young central defender has been a key part of Spain and Barcelona’s success – something that seemed unlikely after his high-profile flame-out at Manchester United. Confident and skilled, Pique can be beat in a footrace -- but he rarely allows player the space to get around him. Just coming into his golden years at only 25. Also known as the boyfriend of singer Shakira.

Vidic was injured most of last season and if you ever doubted how important he was to the Red Devils, his absence provided an object lesson. With him, United are rock-solid and stout. Without him, they are very disorganized and porous. A strong leader and very gifted at clearing danger, Vidic is racing against time to get match-fit for the start of the new EPL campaign.

Love or hate him – and many people hate him – it’s hard to deny that he’s not one of the world’s top defenders. Very talented with the ball at his feet and a gifted interceptor, his problem is his penchant for recklessness. “Rustic” is a charitable way to describe some of his more crunching tackles, and refs have taken notice.

Steady and versatile — he can play almost any position — AC Milan’s captain has been turning heads since his days at Juventude in Brazil. The solid center-back struggled with injury while at Porto but since regaining his fitness has become one of the most cherished defenders in the game. He was the subject of a huge – and rejected – €46m transfer offer from PSG this summer, summing up his value.

Hummels is highly touted as one of the best centerbacks in the world, and an integral part to his national and club teams. With a wide range of skills, Hummels is a big target for set pieces in attack. With great vision and touch, Hummels sends his clubs on high-percentage breakaways with his magnificent long passes.

The heart of the Real Madrid defense has come a long way from his foul-happy and reckless earlier days. He’s now a stalwart for club and country and is considered one of the hardest backs to beat in the air and on the floor. He also boasts a seemingly limitless reserve of energy, and gets fresher as games go on. He’s a real monster.

Considered one of the best defenders in Italy, Chiellini was unable to really shine in the Euros due to injury. Removed early against Spain after aggravating a recurrent thigh problem, Chiellini was forced to sit and watch as his team was torched down the flank he normally covers. When fit, he is very difficult to beat and fine distributor of the ball.

Stong, bold and talented, Diego Lugano has won over the hearts of his supporters with his powerful defensive abilities. His strong leadership skills and ability to score in dead ball situations helped lead Uruguay to the Copa America crown in 2011. Supporters refer to him as 'TOTA,' the Spanish abreviations for talent, pride, skill and ambition.

Anderson Vital de Silva, or better known as Dedé, is emerging as one of the best defenders in the world. At the age of 24, Dedé has already won the title of best centerback of the Brasileirão, and his club won the 2011 Copa do Brasil. Known for his exceptional tracking and headers, Dedé has become a fan favorite at Vasco da Gama.