Touchback football Meaning and Definition
Touchback football
Pronunciation
/ˈtʌtʃbæk ˈfʊtbɔːl/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
A scoring play in American football where the ball is kicked into the end zone and the receiving team does not attempt to advance it, resulting in a touchback and a change of possession.
Examples
- The kickoff was deep, and the receiver let it roll into the end zone for a touchback football.
- The opposing team tried to pin us deep with a long kickoff, but we got a touchback football and started our drive at the 20-yard line.
Synonyms
- Touchback
- Kickoff touchback
Antonyms
- Return
- Advance
Additional Information
A touchback football is an important aspect of American football strategy. It allows the receiving team to gain possession of the ball and start their drive from their own 20-yard line, rather than risking a turnover or loss of yardage by attempting to return the kickoff. This can be especially crucial in close games or when the receiving team is struggling to move the ball.
In recent years, the NFL has implemented rule changes to encourage touchback footballs, such as moving the kickoff line from the 30-yard line to the 35-yard line. This has led to an increase in touchback footballs, as teams are more likely to kick the ball deep into the end zone.
The term “touchback football” is derived from the combination of “touchback,” referring to the act of the ball touching the ground in the end zone, and “football,” the sport itself. The term has been in use since the early days of American football and has gained popularity as the game has evolved.
Usage Notes
When using the term “touchback football,” it is important to clarify the context in which it is being used. In general, the term refers to the specific play where the ball is kicked into the end zone and the receiving team does not attempt to advance it. However, it can also be used more broadly to refer to any instance where the ball is kicked into the end zone and the receiving team gains possession.
Cultural References
The term “touchback football” has been referenced in various forms of media, including sports broadcasts, films, and video games. It is often used to add realism and authenticity to depictions of American football.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
There are no idiomatic expressions or phrases that include the term “touchback football.” However, the term is often used in combination with other phrases, such as “touchback football strategy” or “touchback football rules.”
Related Words or Phrases
Related words and phrases include “touchback,” “kickoff,” “end zone,” and “special teams.”
Collocations
Common collocations with the term “touchback football” include “touchback football strategy,” “touchback football rules,” and “touchback football plays.”
Frequency of Use
The term “touchback football” is commonly used in American football circles, particularly among coaches, players, and analysts. It is also frequently used in sports media and broadcasting.
Common Misspellings
Common misspellings of “touchback football” include “touchback footbal,” “touchback futbol,” and “touchback fottball.”