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USA Football

Roles

Glossary

5 results found

Does a rule or game term have you stumped? Look no further. We have the answers.

  • fair catch
    an unhindered catch by a member of the receiving team of any kick that has crossed the kicking team’s line of scrimmage or free-kick line, provided that the proper signal (one hand and arm extended above the head and moving from side to side) has been given by the receiver.
  • field goal
    a placekick or dropkick from scrimmage that goes over the crossbar and through the uprights of the goal without touching the ground first. Three points are awarded for a field goal.
  • first down
    the first of four allotted downs the offensive team receives, occurring when the offensive team gains 10 or more yards within its allotted four downs.
  • free kick
    A kick from a tee that starts either half or follows a score. A kickoff is a free kick.
  • fumble
    losing possession of the football by means other than by passing or kicking it.