Football Glossary

11 results found

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

  • cadence
    The words and numbers spoken by the quarterback after the offense is set. Audibles often are concealed inside the cadence.
  • catch
    A catch is the act of establishing player possession of a live ball in flight.
  • center
    The player at the middle of the offensive line who snaps the ball to the quarterback.
  • chain
    A 10-yard length of chain used to measure the distance required for a first down.
  • chop block
    The official, using both arms facing down, will make a chopping motion two times towards his waist with his arms/hands.
  • clipping
    Clipping is a block against an opponent when the initial contact is from behind, at or below the waist and not against a player who is a runner or pretending to be a runner. The official, using one arm, will swipe forward across the back of his knee or lower thigh. The result is a 15-yard penalty from the spot of the foul.
  • coin toss signal
    The official will tap the winning captain on the shoulder, turn to the press box and signal either option deferred, option to receive. Captains should be turned with their backs to their goal lines.
  • concussion
    A type of traumatic brain injury caused by a bump, blow or jolt to the head that can change the way a brain normally works. Concussions can also occur from a blow to the body that causes the head to move rapidly back and forth.
  • cornerback
    Defensive players positioned at the edges of the defense, often across from wide receivers. Cornerbacks primarily serve roles in pass coverage, but they also have tackle responsibilities on wide runs and sweeps.
  • cross block
    A block in which two linemen block defenders who are diagonally opposite the blockers’ own starting positions. One of the blockers, usually the outside blocker, goes in front.
  • cut back
    A sudden change in direction taken by a ball-carrier to make it more difficult for defenders to follow. Often, a cut back takes a runner away from his blockers.
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