What Is Down and Distance?
Feb 26, 2024The goal of the offense is to advance to the ball downfield and try to score points. The way the offense can advance the ball downfield is by using a system called down and distance.
When an offense first gets the football, they are given four plays or four downs to advance the ball 10 yards.
If they can accomplish that, they are allowed to continue to try and advance the ball downfield. This is called a 1st Down. Another term for 1st Down includes "Moving the Chains".
If the offense cannot advance the ball ten yards in four plays, they will commit a turnover on downs. This means that the defensive team takes over possession of the ball.
Example: (Down) & (Distance)
1st & 10 = 1st down & 10 yards to go till your next 1st Down.
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