Fumble: When a ball carrier loses possession by dropping the ball or having it knocked away before a play ends; the first player to regain possession of the loose ball is said to make the recovery, and his team becomes the offense.

 

Related Words

Fumble: When a ball carrier loses possession by dropping the ball or having it knocked away before a play ends; the first player to regain possession of the loose ball is said to make the recovery, . . . View Full Definition

Safety: A player position on defense — see free safety and strong safety. A safety scored during a try scores 2 points (1 point in the NFL) and is followed by a kickoff as for any other try. A meth . . . View Full Definition

Turnover: When a team loses control of the puck to the opposition. Same term used in football.

Upback: A player, in a scrimmage kick (punts and field goals) or kneel formations, who lines up behind the offensive line. An upback's primary duty is to block oncoming defensive players in a kick f . . . View Full Definition

Sack: Tackling a ball carrier who intends to throw a forward pass. A sack is also awarded if a player forces a fumble of the ball, or the ball carrier to go out of bounds, behind the line of scrim . . . View Full Definition

Return Yards: Are those yards gained advancing the ball during play after a change of possession such as a punt or a kickoff or a turnover such as a fumble or an interception.

Ball Security: The ability of a player to maintain control over the football during play and thus avoid a fumble.

Loose Ball: A ball that is not in possession of either team, such as after a fumble or a kickoff; it can be recovered by either team.

Possession: (a) having the ball on offense for a number of downs, ultimately resulting in either a score, a turn-over, or the end of the half. (b) physical control of the ball after a pass or fumble.

Recovery: (also 'recovery shot, trouble shot') a shot that is played to extricate oneself from trouble after an errant shot