defensive posture

[Sgt_Rock]

I prefer to defend in LINE formation. Why? Because if the unit is defeated then it retreats facing the enemy.

The chances of recovery from Disorder are the same for a Disordered line or column ... and the unit still fills an important place on the line thus denying the enemy the opportunity of moving past it. Its ZOC is still projecting forward .... Tip: if you are going to deploy any brigade in this series always have reserves! So if the line gets defeated (and doesnt rout) then you can counter attack with fresh units, still fire the Line at a better fire rate at the attackers, then attack them and send THEM packing! (nods)

Follow on cavalry charges do not hit the unit in flank that way too. A column retreats with its tail facing the enemy. If it just got hit by cavalry and you have the multiple cavalry melee rule enabled then they can hit the column again this time with the flank bonus.