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How can an offense advance the ball after a snap in American football?
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American football
Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts during Super Bowl LVII, 2023; the team lost to the Kansas City Chiefs.
In American football, the offense advances the ball toward the opponent's goal line primarily through running and passing. After the center snaps the ball to the quarterback, the offense can move the ball in the following ways:12
- Running: A player may carry the ball while running toward the opponent's goal.32
- Passing: The quarterback may pass the ball to a receiver. A forward pass is a pass thrown in the direction of the opponent's goal. Additionally, players may use a lateral, which is a pass directed to the side or backward from the direction of advancement.245
- Kicking: The ball may also be advanced by kicking it downfield.3
The offensive team is given four downs to advance the ball at least 10 yards to earn a "first down" and retain possession. If they fail to do so, they typically surrender the ball to the opposing team, often by punting on the fourth down.2