Football Terms You Should
Know
a b c d e f g h i j k l m n o p q r s t u v w x y z
------ a
-------
Assistant Coach
The coaches that specialize in specific areas of the team
and are directly under the supervision of the head coach.
Artificial Turf
A synthetic surface used instead of real grass on some
football fields.
Astroturf
An artificial surface used instead of grass on some football
fields.
Audible
A play called by the quarterback at the line of scrimmage
which changes the play that was previously called in the
huddle; a change of plans in game play just before the ball
goes into play. Also called an automatic.
Automatic
Another word for "audible". See above.
Back to top
------ b -------
Back Judge
This is the official who sets up 20 yards deep in the
defensive backfield on the wide receiver side of the field. His
job is to:
Make sure the defense doesn't have more than 11 players on
the field.
Watch all eligible receivers on his side of the field
Watch the area between the umpire and field judge.
Rule on the legality of catches and pass interference
penalties.
Watch for clipping on kick returns.
When there is a field goal happening, stands under the
goalpost and decides whether the kick was good or not.
Backfield
The group of offensive players who line up behind the line
of scrimmage or;
the area behind the offensive linemen.
Balanced Line
A formation with an equal number of linemen on either side
of the center.
Ball Carrier
Any player who has possession of the ball.
Birdcage
The facemask worn by linemen which has extra vertical and
horizontal bars.
Blackout
Generally, a television term. This means that a football
game will not be seen on television in the same local market
that it is being played.
Check your local listings :-)
Blindside
The side opposite the side the player is looking
towards.
Blitz
An all-out run by linebackers and defensive backs, charging
through the offensive line in an effort to sack the quarterback
before he can hand off the ball, or pass it.
Block
To contact your opponent, with any part of the body. There
are many types of blocks, such as the basic block (which is
chest to chest contact), the shoulder block (which uses one's
shoulder to contact), the scramble or reach block (designed to
tangle up an oncoming opponent who is playing outside your
position), and pass blocking (delaying the oncoming defensive
line to allow your quarterback to act).
Bomb
A long pass to a player waiting deep down the field.
Bootleg
The quarterback fakes a hand-off to backs going one way
while he goes the other way to run or pass.
Bowl Game
These are games played in college football after the regular
season ends. Not all teams are eligible to play in bowl
games.
Bump and Run
A technique used by defensive backs to slow down a
receiver's ability to get off the line of scrimmage. The
defender bumps the receiver at the start of the play and
attempts to throw him off his route by keeping contact over the
first five yards.
Buttonhook
A pass play in which the receiver heads straight down field,
then all of a sudden turns back towards the line of
scrimmage.
Back to top
------ c -------
Carry
When you run with the ball.
Center
An offensive line position at the center (get it?) of the
line of scrimmage. The center snaps the ball to the quarterback
or punter.
Chain Crew (or Chain Gang)
Three assistants to the officials whose job it is to handle
the first down measuring chain and the down box.
Cheap Shot
This should be fairly self-explanatory, but if not, it means
to deliberately foul or commit some other violent act against
an unsuspecting player.
Check off
Same as "audible" above.
Chop Block
A delayed block at the knees or below against an opponent
who is in contact with a teammate of the blocker.
Clipping
Blocking an opponent from behind, typically at leg level.
Clipping is a foul with a 15-yard penalty.
Clothesline
A foul. To clothesline is to strike another player across
the face with one's extended arm.
Coach
The trainer of the team who also formulates offensive and
defensive strategy.
Coffin Corner
One of the four corners of the field. A punter often tries
to kick the ball out of bounds near a coffin corner to top the
other team from returning the ball, and make them put the ball
back into play close to their own goal line.
Coin Toss
Before the start of the game, the quarterback of the
visiting team calls heads or tails of a coin flipped by the
referee. The winning team kicks off; the loser chooses which
goal to defend.
Completion
A legally caught pass.
Controlling the Clock
Keeping possession of the football for long periods of time,
giving the other team's offense less time to use the ball.
Conversion
See Point After Touchdown.
Cornerback
A defensive backfield player, almost as deep into the
backfield as the safety. There are two cornerbacks. Their job
is to tackle runners and intercept passes.
Count
These are the numbers that a quarterback shouts out while
waiting for the ball to be snapped. Example: "hut 5, 7, 4!"
Counter
A running play designed to get the defense going in one
direction while the running back goes back against the intended
pursuit of the defense.
Cover
To defend a position or location on the field.
Coverage
A defensive play designed to stop the pass, or a special
teams play designed to limit the kick return.
Crackback
A foul. Blocking by an offensive player who goes down field
and then turns back to the middle to block a player from the
side.
Curl/Curl In
A maneuver where the receiver runs down field before turning
back to run towards the line of scrimmage.
Cut
To suddenly change direction to lose a pursuing player.
Also, to drop a prospective player from the team
roster.
Back to top
------ d -------
Dead Ball
A ball that is no longer in play. A ball that is not held by
a player or loose from a kick, fumble, or pass.
Defense
The team defending their goal line. The defense does not
have the ball; rather, they try to keep the offense from
passing or running the ball over their (the defense's) goal
line.
Defensive Backfield
The area or players behind the defensive linemen. The
defensive backfield is the last line of defense against the
offense. There are two safeties, two cornerbacks and three or
four linebackers in the defensive backfield.
Defensive End
A defensive player who lines up at the end of the defensive
line.
Defensive Holding
Use of the hands to hold or push an offensive receiver or
back on a passing play beyond the first five yards past the
line of scrimmage.
Defensive Line
The defensive players who line up on the line of scrimmage
opposite the offensive linemen. A team's first line of
defense.
Defensive Linemen
The players whose job it is to rush the quarterback in an
effort to sack him, or, if another player has the ball, to
block him and prevent the opposing team from gaining any
yards.
Defensive Tackle
A defensive player who lines up on the inside of the
defensive line.
Defensive Team
The unit that begins a play from scrimmage without the ball.
The general role of the defense is to keep the opposition's
offense from advancing the football.
Delay of Game
A delay caused by a team using or requesting excessive
time-outs, or by not putting the ball in play within the given
amount of time, usually 25 seconds. This results in a 5-yard
penalty.
Dime Back
The 6th defensive back using in dime coverage.
Dime Coverage
A pass coverage scheme that involves the use of 6 defensive
backs.
Dime Package
The use of 6 defensive backs in a defensive formation.
Division
A sub-group within a conference. For example, the Hawkeyes
are in the Big Ten Conference but are also in Division 1A.
See what other teams are in Division 1A.
Double Coverage
A defensive strategy where two players cover one of the
opposition's receivers at the same time.
Double Foul
A situation in which each team commits a foul during the
same play.
Double Team
Playing two defensive players against one offensive player
in order to stop him from making a play.
Down
An offensive play, starting with a center snap and ending
when the ball is dead. The offense gets four downs to gain ten
yards. If they gain that before using all four downs, they get
a first down and another four downs to gain another ten yards.
Each time they gain ten yards, the team is at their first down
again, needing another ten yards (first and ten) within the
next four downs, or plays.
Down and In
A maneuver where the receiver runs straight down field, then
suddenly cuts toward the middle of the field.
Down and Out
The opposite of Down and In. In a down and out, the receiver
runs down field then turns out, toward the sideline.
Down Box (Down Indicator)
A seven-foot metal rod, on the end of which are four cards
(numbered 1 to 4), used to keep track of the number of the down
being played.
You'll see these along the sidelines and the numbers are
typically bright orange.
Down Lineman
A defensive lineman, including defensive tackles and
defensive ends.
Draw Play
A face pass which ends with one of the backs carrying the
ball after the defensive linemen are "drawn" in on the pass
rush.
Drive
The series of plays that begins at the time an offense takes
possession of the ball until the point where they either score
or turn the ball over to the other team.
Drop Back
An action by a quarterback, after taking the snap, where he
takes a few steps backward into the pocket to set up for a
pass.
Drop Kick
A free kick where a player drops his ball and kicks it right
after it hits the ground.
Back to
top
------ e -------
Eligible Receiver
An offensive player who is able (by the rules) to catch a
forward pass; eligible to receive the pass.
Encroachment
Contacting an opposing player before the snap. Encroaching
is illegal with a 5-yard penalty.
End
An offensive lineman on the very end of the line of
scrimmage (there are two, one on each end of the line). The
ends block defensive linemen to open up holes for the runner,
and guard the quarterback.
On professional teams, the end on the right side is referred
to as a "tight" end as he lines up close to the tackle. The end
on the left side is out farther to go out for passes, and is
called a wide receiver.
End Line
The very end of the field, in either direction. There are
two end lines (one at each end of the field).
End Zone
The area between the goal lines and the end lines. The last
ten yards at either end of the field.
Excessive Time-outs
Calling a time out after having used the three allowed per
half.
Extra Points
After scoring a touchdown, a team can earn one more point by
making a successful place-kick.
Back to
top
------ f -------
Face Mask
Grabbing an opponent's face mask. Also, the mask itself,
worn by the players.
Fair Catch
When there is a punt, and a receiver is going to catch the
ball and signals that he will not advance after catching it (by
raising his hand just before the catch), this is a fair catch.
Also, players may not tackle the receiver making the fair
catch.
Fair Catch Interference
A player may not interfere with a punt returner's
opportunity to catch the football after having signaled for a
fair catch.
Faking a Roughing
An illegal act by a quarterback, kicker, or punter in which
they fake being roughed by the opposition in the hopes of
drawing a roughing penalty.
False Start
An infraction in which an offensive player moves before the
ball is snapped.
Field Goal
When a place-kick goes through the goalpost (over the
crossbar and between the upright bars), three points are earned
as a field goal.
Field Judge
The official that lines up 25 yards deep in the defensive
backfield on the tight end side of the field. His duties
include:
Keep track of the play clock and call delay of game if the
clock expires
Make sure the defensive team has no more than 11 players on
the field.
Rules on plays that cross the defense's goal line.
Watch all eligible receivers on his side of the field.
Mark the spot where a play goes out of bounds on his side of
the field
Watch for illegal use of the hands by the receivers and
defensive backs.
Field of Play
The area of the field between the goal lines and the end
lines.
Field Position
The ball's location on the field.
First and Ten
See down.
First Down
The first play of every set of events.
Flanker
An offensive player on the right or left side of the
formation. A flanker usually plays as a receiver and is split
out wider than a wingback.
Flat
The field on either side of the formation.
Flood
An attempt to swamp the opposition or an area of the field
with sheer numbers of players.
Formation
The arrangement of the players at the beginning of each
play. There are several formations. Some of the most common are
the punt formation, I formation, T formation and wishbone
formation. These are generally named for the shape of the
formation.
For instance, an I formation involves two running backs in a
line (I-shaped) behind the quarterback, and was invented by
college coach Tom Nugent in the 1950s. The wishbone formation
as the two half-backs on each side of the full-back set back a
few yards as opposed to the T formation in which all three
backs are in a line parallel to the line of scrimmage.
Forward Pass
Throwing of the ball "forward", or in the direction of
advancement (towards the opponents' goal).
Forward Progress
The location to which a ball carrier's forward momentum
carries him before he is tackled.
Foul
A breaking of the rules. Common fouls are holding (grasping
an opponent, unless the opponent has the ball), personal fouls
(tripping an opponent or striking an opponent with one's hand,
knee or head), interference (a defensive player contacting a
receiver to stop the completion of a pass or kick by contacting
the player before he has the ball), clipping (pushing an
opponent in the back), and face mask.
Free Kick
Either a kickoff or a punt following a safety.
Free Safety
A defensive player who lines up the deepest in the secondary
and defends the deep middle of the field against the pass.
Freeze
Attempting to keep possession of the football for a long
time without scoring or attempting to score.
Front Four
The defensive linemen in a formation that includes two ends
and two tackles.
Front Seven
The front line of defense that generally includes the
linemen and linebackers.
Fullback
A member of the offense whose job it is to block for the
halfback and quarterback, but he also runs the ball, and
receives passes. The name derives from the fact that in an I
formation the Fullback is the furthest back, or a full way
back. See quarterback and halfback to further clarify.
Fumble
A ball that is dropped while in play.
Back to
top
------ g -------
Game Ball
The ball given to a winning team's player or coach
considered to have made to the most contribution to their win
(supposed to be the ball or a ball the game was played
with).
Gap
The open space between players along the line of scrimmage
when they are aligned.
Goal Line
The line over which the ball must pass to score a touchdown.
There are two, one at each end of the field, ten yards from the
ends of the field.
Goal Line Stand
Making a stand against the opposition at or near one's
goal-line in a very tough defensive effort.
Goalpost
The poles at the rear of each end zone through which teams
score field goals and extra points.
Gridiron
A football field.
Guard
An offensive lineman. There are two guards, one on either
side of the center, whose job it is to guard the
quarterback.
Gunner
The members of the special teams unit who specialize in
racing down field to tackle the kick or punt re
turner.
Back to
top
------ h -------
Hail Mary
The quarterback throwing the ball up in the air without
really targeting any particular receiver hoping someone on his
side catches it. Typically done when the quarterback's about to
get sacked.
Halfback
An offensive player who lines up in the backfield and
generally is responsible for carrying the ball on run
plays.
Hand off
Quite literally what it says; to hand the ball off to a
teammate.
Hands Team
A team of sure-handed players that specialize in recovering
onside kicks.
Hang Time
The amount of time a punted football remains in the air.
Hash Marks
The marks that divide the field into thirds. Whenever the
ball becomes dead on or outside one of these marks, it is
placed on its respective hash mark.
Head Coach
The member of the coaching staff that is responsible for all
aspects of the team, and is in charge of all the other
coaches.
Head Linesman
The head linesman is the official that sets up straddling
the line of scrimmage on the sideline designated by the
referee. His duties are:
To watch for line of scrimmage violations like off sides and
encroachment.
Rule on all out-of-bounds plays on his side of the field
Keep tabs on the chain crew
Mark the chain to a yard marker on the field as a reference
point for a measurement on the field
Mark a players forward progress after a play is whistled
dead.
Keep track of all eligible receivers
Watch for illegal motion, illegal shifts, illegal use of
hands, and/or illegal men down field.
Helping the Runner
Another player cannot assist the ball carrier by pushing or
pulling them forward.
Heisman Trophy
An award presented annually by the Downtown Athletic Club of
New York to the best college football player in the
country.
See also, Nile Kinnick.
Hitch and Go
A maneuver where a runner goes down field to catch a pass,
fakes a quick turn (as if to catch), then continues down field
for a deeper pass.
Holder
The player who holds the ball during a place kick.
Holding
Keeping another player from advancing by literally holding
him back with one's hand(s). Typically illegal.
Hole Number
A number assigned to each gap or space between the five
offensive linemen and the tight end.
Home Field Advantage
The benefit a team gets by playing games in its own
stadium.
Hook and Ladder
A pass play in which the receiver catches a pass facing
toward the line of scrimmage, then laterals the ball to another
offensive player who is racing toward the opponent's
endzone.
Hot Dog
A player who uses theatrics and "hams it up" for the
camera.
Hot Receiver
A receiver designated to accept a quick pass from the
quarterback in the event of a blitz by the defense.
Huddle
The action of the players grouping together to plan the next
play(s). As a non, the group itself.
Hurry-Up Offense
An offensive strategy designed to gain as much yardage as
possible while running as little time off the clock as
possible.
Back to
top
------ i -------
I Formation
An I formation involves two running backs in a line
(I-shaped) behind the quarterback and was invented by college
coach Tom Nugent in the 1950s.
Illegal Formation
An offensive formation in which not enough players are on
the line of scrimmage.
Illegal Motion
Movement by an offensive player before the snap. Illegal
motion is, obviously, illegal, and gets a five-yard
penalty.
Illegal Procedure
Used to indicate a number of infractions, including an
illegal snap, having less than seven players on the offense's
line of scrimmage, and taking more than two steps after making
a fair catch.
Illegal Shift
A foul by the offense where a player fails to reset for at
least one second after two players shift position at the same
time.
In Bounds
The region of the field that is considered in play.
Incomplete Pass
A forward pass that is not caught or intercepted.
Incompletion
A forward pass that hits the ground before the receiver has
a chance to catch and control it.
Intentional Grounding
The quarterback purposefully throwing the ball out of bounds
or into the ground to avoid throwing a bad pass (which might be
intercepted). Intentional grounding can be difficult to call,
but a referee may assign the offending team a five yard penalty
and loss of their down.
Interception
The catching of a forward pass by the defense (this turns
the defense suddenly into the offense).
Interference
There is offensive interference, when blockers run in front
of a running back, and defensive interference (or defensive
pass interference), when a pass defender interferes with a
receiver trying to catch the ball while the defender could not
catch the ball himself (intercept). Whew huh!?
For example, a defender with his back to the ball who sees
the receiver he's covering readying to catch the ball and then
waves his arms in front of the receiver to distract him is
interfering with the pass. Defense interference is an
infraction of the rules.
Back to
top
------ j -------
Back to
top
------ k -------
Key
Watching a player to try and see the direction in which he
is going to be moving. A player may make small movements such
as foot placement, etc., that can give away his next move to an
observant player who is keying him.
Kick
Attempting to score a point or field goal after touchdown by
kicking the ball.
Kicking an Opponent
An illegal act in which a player kneels on or kicks a member
of another team.
Kicking Game
The game strategy revolving around punting and
place-kicking.
Kickoff
The kicking team (determined by the winner of the coin toss)
kicks the ball from the free kick line (the 40-yard line in
college football). This is the kickoff, the start of the
game.
Kick Returner
A special teams player who specializes in returning
kickoffs.
Back to
top
------ l -------
Lateral
As a forward pass, but not thrown in the direction of the
opponents' goalpost. Rather, the ball is thrown in any
direction other than towards the opponents' goal.
Linebacker
Defensive players placed behind the defensive linemen. Their
job is to tackle runners and block or intercept passes. There
are three or four linebackers.
Line Judge
An official who keeps track of time and also watches for
various violations, including the quarterback's position when
passing (the quarterback isn't allowed to go past the line of
scrimmage to pass).
Linemen
The players on the forward line (see offensive linemen and
defensive linemen).
Line of Scrimmage
Before each play, a set of two imaginary lines are used to
determine where the players will line up. These are the lines
of scrimmage, and pass through each tip of the ball, running
parallel to the goal lines.
Line to Gain
Term that indicates the distance needed for first-down
yardage.
Live Ball
Opposite of a ball that is dead. A live ball is either loose
as a result of a kick, fumble, or pass or is held by a
player.
Long Snapper
The center who specializes in snapping the ball for punts
and field goal attempts.
Loose Ball
A ball that is not in possession of either team.
Back to
top
------ m -------
Man in Motion
The player who turns and runs behind the line of scrimmage,
parallel to it, as the signals are called. He then runs down
field just as the ball is snapped.
Man to Man Coverage
Covering each member of the offense with a member of the
defense. Also called player-to-player defense. See also zone
defense.
Middle Guard
The defensive lineman positioned between the tackles,
opposite the offensive center. Also called the nose guard.
Midfield
The area of the field in the general vicinity of the 50-yard
line.
Motion
When an offensive player begins to move laterally behind the
line of scrimmage before the bal is snapped.
Mousetrap
See trap block.
Multiple Offense
Offensive strategy using a number for formations.
Back to
top
------ n -------
Necessary Line
A line the offense must cross to get a new first down.
Neutral Zone
The area between the two lines of scrimmage, stretching from
sideline to sideline.
Nickel Back
An extra defensive back who is used mostly in obvious
passing situations.
Nickel Defense
A defensive formation involving five defensive backs, hence
the name.
Nose Guard
See middle guard.
Nose Tackle
The defensive player who lines up directly across from the
center.
Back to
top
------ o -------
Offending Team
The team that committed a foul.
Offense
The team with the ball, the offense attempts to run or pass
the ball across the defense's goal line.
Offensive Backfield
The area or players behind the offensive linemen. These are
the running backs, the quarterback and a second wide receiver.
See also Offensive Linemen.
Offensive Holding
See holding.
Offensive Line
The five offensive players that line up on the line of
scrimmage and block for the quarterback and ball carriers.
Offensive Linemen
Seven players, made up of the center, two guards, two ends,
and two tackles.
Offensive Pass Interference
A penalty in which an offensive player significantly hinders
a defensive player's opportunity to intercept a forward pass or
pushes off of the defender to give himself an advantage.
Official
One who supervises the game and interprets the rules.
Off Season
When the football teams don't play, February through the
middle of August, usually.
Offside
When a player is over the line of scrimmage (on the opposing
team's side) before the ball is snapped.
Off-Tackle
A running play designed to go to the strong side and take
advantage of the hole supplied by the tackle, the tight end,
and the full back.
Onside Kick
A short kick (though at least 10 yards) with the plan being
to recover the kick and thus gain some yardage.
Open Up Holes
To push the opposition aside by blocking them to open up
holes in their defense through which a runner can pass with the
ball.
Open Receiver
Any potential receiver that breaks away from pass
coverage.
Option Play
An offensive play wherein the player with the ball has the
option of running or passing.
Out of Bounds
The area touching or outside the sidelines and end line.
Out of Bounds at the Snap
A player may not enter the field of play after the football
is snapped.
Outside
Towards the sideline.
Overtime
The game goes into overtime to break a tie.
In college football, overtime consists of two series with
each team putting the ball in play by a snap on or between the
inbounds lines on the designated 25-yard line.
Back to
top
------ p -------
Pass
The act of throwing the ball to another player.
Pass Defender
A defensive player whose assignment is to cover an opposing
receiver.
Pass Interference
Illegally hindering another player's chances of catching a
forward pass.
Pass Pattern
A predetermined route run by a receiver in an attempt to get
open for a pass.
Pass Protection
The blocking scheme used by offensive players to keep the
defense from getting to the quarterback on passing plays.
Pass Route
A predetermined path run by a receiver in an attempt to get
open for a pass.
Pass Rush
An attempt by the defensive players to get to the
quarterback so they can tackle him before he can complete a
pass.
Passing Game
The offensive strategy dealing with throwing the ball and
receiving forward passes.
PAT
After a touchdown, the scoring team is allowed to add
another point by kicking the football through the uprights of
the goalpost.
Penalty
Punishment for a foul. Can consist of losing a down or even
the ball, but usually sets back the penalized team five to
fifteen yards.
Personal Foul
A flagrant illegal act that is generally deemed to
unnecessarily risk the health of other players.
Pick
An offensive maneuver in which two receivers cross and one
bumps the defender of the other or;
another tem for interception.
Pick Off
A pass that is caught by a defensive player, giving
possession to the team that intercepted it.
Pigskin
An old term for a football.
Piling On
Several players jumping on the player with the ball after
he's been tackled. Also called dog piling. Piling on is
illegal, with a 15-yard penalty.
Pitch
The act of the quarterback tossing the ball to a running
back who is moving laterally away from him.
Pitch Out
The act of the quarterback tossing the ball to a running
back who is moving laterally away from him.
Place-Kick
A kick made while the ball is held in place on the ground
(either with a tee or by another player).
Placekicker
The player who kicks the ball on kickoffs, extra point
attempts, and field goal attempts.
Play
In general, the actions of the players following a snap or
kickoff. More specifically, the type of action taken as part of
a planned maneuver.
Play Action
A passing play set up to draw the Defensive Linebackers
towards the Line of Scrimmage with a Run Fake.
Playbook
A notebook containing a team's terms, strategies, plays,
etc., issued to each player.
Play Clock
A clock displayed above each end zone that limits the time
teams may take between plays.
Playmaker
A player that has a history of making big plays.
Pocket
The area of protection given to a quarterback by his
offensive line when he drops back to pass.
Point After Touchdown
After scoring a touchdown, a team may score an extra point
for a successful place kick through the opposition's goal
post.
Pooch Kick
See Squib Kick.
Possession
When a team has control of the ball, they are considered to
be in possession of it. When a player maintains control of the
ball while touching both feet, or any other part of his body
other than his hands, to the ground.
Post
A forward pass that the quarterback throws down the center
of the field as the intended receiver runs toward the
goalpost.
Post Season
The time after the regular season is over when a tournament
is played to determine a champion.
Post Pattern
A pass pattern where the receiver runs 10-15 yards down
field before turning towards the middle of the field, but at a
45 degree angle (in the direction of the goal post).
Power Sweep
See sweep.
Previous Spot
The exact location on the field where the ball was placed
before the preceding play.
Primary Receiver
The receiver who was chosen by the quarterback in the huddle
to receive the ball.
Pulling
Leaving one's position to move elsewhere to block.
Pump Fake
When the Quarterback draws his arm back and fakes a forward
pass to draw the Free Safety to an area or cause a Defensive
Back to pause in his coverage of a Wide Receiver.
Punt
When the ball is dropped from the kicker's hands and kicked
before hitting the ground.
Punt Return
The runback of the ball after it's been punted.
Pylon
A short orange foam marker that marks all four corners of
each end zone.
Back to
top
------ q -------
Quarter
A football game is divided into four quarters, 15 minutes
each.
Quarterback
A member of the offense. The quarterback takes the snap from
the center, then either passes, hands off, or runs with the
ball. The name derives from the fact that in an I formation the
Quarterback is half as far back as the Halfback, or a quarter
the way back. See Fullback and Halfback to further clarify.
Quarterback Sneak
A play where the quarterback receives the ball after the
snap and immediately runs forward through the opposition, with
his own team blocking for him.
Quick Count
When the quarterback calls the signals at the line of
scrimmage very rapidly so as to throw off the other team.
Quick Kick
A surprise punt.
Back to top
------ r -------
Reading the Defense
The act of recognizing defensive formations and keys.
Ready List
A list of several plays ready to be used in an upcoming game
(tailored to an opposing team's strengths and weaknesses).
Receiver
A receiver, or pass receiver, is a member of the offense
whose job it is to get into the open to catch a pass from the
quarterback and then run with the ball.
Recover
Grabbing a ball that has been fumbled (whether the
recovering player's side initially had the ball or not).
Red Dog
See blitz.
Redshirt
A college football player who skips a year of play without
losing a year of eligibility. A player will often redshirt
because of an injury or academic problem.
Red Zone
The area between the 20-yard line and the goal line at both
ends of the field.
Referee
The referee is the official that has control of the game and
is generally the final authority in all decisions. Among his
duties are:
Announce all penalties
Explain penalties to the offending team's captain
Explain penalties to the head coach of the offending team
and inform him of who it was called against
Position himself in the backfield, approximately 10 yards
behind the quarterback, before each snap
Monitor illegal hits on the quarterback
Watch for illegal blocks near the quarterback
Determine whether the yardage chains should be brought on
the field for a measurement
You can tell the referee from the other officials because he
is the only one that wears a white hat.
All other officials wear black hats.
Return
The act of brining the ball back in the opposite direction
after a change of possession.
Returner
A player who runs back kickoffs and punts.
Reverse
An offensive play. In a reverse, the player with the ball
runs in one direction, then hands off the ball to another
player going the opposite direction, reversing the ball's
direction of travel.
Roll
The quarterback rolls when he moves left or right with the
ball before throwing it.
Roll Out
The act of the quarterback moving left or right out of the
pocket before throwing or running with the football.
Roster
A list of the members of a team.
Roughing the Kicker
Flagrantly running into or hitting the kicker after the ball
has been kicked.
Roughing the Passer
Flagrantly running into or hitting the quarterback after the
ball has been released. Can also be called when a defender hits
the quarterback in the head.
Route
A predetermined direction and distance that a receiver
follows when he runs from the line of scrimmage for a forward
pass.
Runback
Returning a kickoff, punt, or interception.
Running Back
Positioned behind the quarterback, there are two running
backs, whose job it is to run with the ball, which is typically
handed off by the quarterback. Part of the offensive backfield.
In college football, there are halfbacks and fullbacks in these
positions, but in professional football they are simply the two
running backs.
Running into the Kicker
Making incidental contact with a placekicker or punter after
the ball has been kicked. A less serious version of the
roughing the kicker penalty.
Rush
To run from the scrimmage line with the ball.
Back to top
------ s -------
Sack
Tackling the quarterback before he can throw a pass.
Safety
When a team forces the opposition to down the ball in their
own end zone, they receive two points, called a safety. Also,
the player position called safety is a defensive backfield
position, the deepest in the backfield. There are two safeties,
see Strong Safety and Free Safety.
Safety Blitz
A charge by one or both safeties in an attempt to tackle the
quarterback.
Safety Valve
A short pass thrown to a running back when the wide
receivers are covered.
Scheme
A term used to describe offensive and defensive formations
and the overall strategy for using such a formation.
Scramble
When a quarterback runs behind the line of scrimmage and
loses tacklers.
Scrambler
A quarterback whose gotten a reputation for scrambling.
Scrambling
The act, by a quarterback, of moving around to avoid the
pass rush.
Screen Pass
A pass from behind the line of scrimmage, after a deep drop
by the Quarterback. It's a play that allows the rushers to
charge through as the offensive linemen fake block them, only
to set up a wall for a receiver, or running back to catch the
pass and run behind.
Scrimmage
The action between two teams, starting when the ball is
snapped.
Secondary
The defensive backfield, or second line of defense.
Second Forward Pass Behind the Line of
Scrimmage
An illegal pass lay in which a player catches a forward pass
behind the line of scrimmage, then passes the ball forward to
another receiver.
Series
The four downs that a team has to advance 10-yards.
Shift
The movement of two (or more) offensive players between
positions.
Shotgun
A passing formation in which the quarterback stands 5-7
yards behind the center before the snap.
Side Judge
The official that lines up 20 yards deep in the defensive
backfield. His duties are essentially the same as the back
judge:
Make sure the defensive team has no more than 11 players on
the field
Watch all eligible receivers on his side of the field
Watch the area between the umpire and field judge
Rule on the legality of catches and pass interference
penalties
Watch for clipping on kick returns.
Sidelines
The line along each side of the field that marks where the
field of play ends.
Signal Caller
The player who calls the plays in the huddle or on the line
of scrimmage.
Signals
The quarterback tells the other layers, with signals, what
the next play will be. Signals are also used at the line of
scrimmage to tell the center when to snap the ball.
Single-Wing Formation
A rarely used offensive formation devised by legendary coach
Pop Warner that used three backfield teammates to block for the
player carrying the ball.
Slant
Running, with the ball, at an angle.
Slot
A gap in the offensive line between a receiver and a
tackle.
Snap
The handing of the ball by the center, reaching back between
his legs, to the quarterback or punter.
Spearing
Contacting another player with one's head; a foul in college
football.
Special Teams
A special group or "unit" of players specializing in one
particular maneuver, such as punts or kick-offs. When the
maneuver is about to be done, the coach will substitute the
special team. Special teams give their all to their specialties
and consequently suffer higher injury rates than the rest of
the team. That's why they are also called bomb squads or
suicide squads.
Spike
The act of slamming the football to the ground.
Spiral
The spin on the ball in flight after the quarterback
releases it.
Split End
A receiver who lines up several yards away from the next
player along the line of scrimmage.
Spot
The exact location on the field that a player's forward
progress is stopped, as marked by an official.
Square In/Out
A pass route where the runner goes down field then turns
"in" at a "square" or right angle to the center of the field,
or "out" to the sideline.
Squib Kick
(Pooch Kick). A low flat kickoff that is difficult to
handle. It is often used when the receiving team has an
effective kick returner or when the kicking team does not have
a long ball kicker.
Stance
The position that a player assumes prior to the snap of the
ball.
Straight Arm or Stiff Arm
Using a hand and straight arm at the opponents head or chest
area to avoid a tackle.
Striking an Official
No player may intentionally strike or push an official.
Striking an Opponent
A player may not strike another with a fist.
Strong Safety
A defensive backfield position, the deepest in the
backfield. The Strong Safety is the Safety on the strong side
(Tight End side) of the Offense and generally must be a solid
tackler. Also, see Free Safety.
Strong Side
In an unbalanced line, the side with the most players.
Stunt
An unusual charge by the offensive linemen, sometimes in
concert with the linebackers, in which they loop around each
other during the charge instead of charging straight ahead.
Substitution
The act of replacing one player with another.
Subway Alumni
The followers of any college team who didn't attend or
graduate from that institution.
Succeeding Spot
The spot where the next play begins, provided no penalty was
called.
Suicide Squad
See special teams.
Sweep
A running play in which two or more offensive linemen pull
out of their stances and running toward the outside of the line
of scrimmage, leading the running back who receives a handoff
or pitch from the quarterback.
Back to top
------ t -------
T Formation
An offensive formation that features three running backs in
the backfield. From above, the center, quarterback and running
backs appear to be lined up in the shape of a T.
Tackle
To bring down another player, i.e., to sack the quarterback
is to tackle him. Also an offensive position. There are two
tackles, one outside each guard, whose job it is to block the
on rushing defensive line and open up holes for a runner.
Tailback
A member of the offensive backfield, whose job it is to run
with the ball. Also called a running back or halfback.
Takeaway
When a defense forces a fumble and recovers the ball or
registers an interception.
TD
An abbreviation for touchdown.
Territory
The half of the field defended by a particular team.
Third-and-Long
A situation in which a teams finds themselves forced to run
a third-down play in which they need to gain considerable
yardage to get the first down.
Three-Point Stance
The position players at the line of scrimmage take before
the snap, leaning forward on one hand with their feet
spread.
Tight End
An offensive player who serves as a receiver and also a
blocker.
Time
In college football, the game is limited to 60 minutes. This
is divided into two 30 minute halves, each of which is divided
into two 15 minute quarters, or "periods." In between the two
halves is halftime, which lasts 15 minutes. If the teams are
tied at the end of the time limit, the game goes into overtime,
continuing until one of the teams pulls ahead.
Time Out
A break in action requested by either team or one of the
officials.
Too Many Men on the Field
Each team is allowed just 11 men on the field during a play.
Having more than 11 is illegal.
Touchback
A touchback occurs when the defensive team gains possession
of the ball in their own end zone on the same play in which the
offensive team caused the ball to cross the goal line.
Touchdown
Carrying the ball into, or catching the ball in, the
opposition's end zone. Worth 6 points.
Trap Block
When a player is allowed through the enemy line only to be
blocked by surprise from another player behind the line. Also
called a mousetrap.
Trenches
The area immediately around the line of scrimmage.
Tripping
Using a leg or foot to trip another player is illegal.
Turn In/Out
A pass route where the player runs down field then turns in
toward the middle of the field or out towards the
sidelines.
Turnover
Losing possession of the ball, typically by error.
Two-minute Warning
A official's timeout at the end of each half that signals
just two minutes remain.
Two-Point Conversion
A scoring play, immediately after a touchdown, in which a
team can add two bonus points by running or passing the ball
into the end zone on one play starting from the opponent's
two-yard line.
Back to top
------ u -------
Umpire
The umpire is the official that lines up approximately five
yards off the line of scrimmage on the defensive side of the
ball. His duties include:
Checking the legality of the player's equipment
Making sure the offense has no more than 11 men on the
field.
Assist the referee on decisions involving possession of the
ball
Record all timeouts
Record all scores
Record the winner of the coin toss
Wipes the ball dry between plays on rainy days
Unbalanced Line
A formation with more players on one side of the center than
the other.
Unnecessary Roughness
An illegal play where a player, in the judgment of the
officials, uses tactics that are above and beyond what is
necessary to block or tackle another player.
Unsportsmanlike Conduct
A dead-ball foul in which a player, in the judgment of the
officials, taunts or otherwise acts in an unsportsmanlike
manner.
Uprights
Vertical posts supporting the crossbar in the goalpost.
Back to top
------ v -------
Veer
A quick-hitting run in which the ball is handed to a running
back whose routes are determined by the slant of the defensive
linemen.
Back to top
------ w -------
Weakside
The side of the offense opposite the side on which the tight
end lines up.
Wideout
An offensive player who lines up on or near the line of
scrimmage, but split to the outside. His primary job is to
catch passes from the quarterback.
Wide Receiver
An offensive player who lines up on or near the line of
scrimmage, but split to the outside. His primary job is to
catch passes from the quarterback.
Wishbone Formation
An offensive formation that features a fullback and two
halfbacks in the backfield.
Back to top
------ x -------
Xs & Os
Refers to diagrams of plays on paper, chalkboard, or
computer.
Back to
top
------ y -------
Yardage
The amount of yards gained (or lost) during a play.
Back to
top
------ z -------
Zone Defense
A defense strategy where each player has an area, or "zone",
of the field to defend. See also man-to-man defense.
|