A sudden change in direction taken by a to make it more difficult for defenders to follow and tackle him.

Preventing a player from gaining yards; in pass coverage, a defender follows a receiver to prevent him from catching a pass; in kick coverage, members of the kicking team try to prevent a long kick return.

The use of tactics by an offensive team to either save or use up time on the game clock, which often dictates its choice of plays.

Groups into which teams are divided in professional and college football; the NFL is divided into National and American Conferences.

A forward pass to a teammate who catches it in the air.

A technique used by pass defenders, where they hit a receiver once within 5 yards (1 yard in college) of the line of scrimmage to slow him down, and then follow him to prevent him from catching a pass.

A long pass thrown to a receiver sprinting down the field.

The act of preventing a defensive player from getting to the ball carrier; blockers use their arms and bodies but may not hold an opponent.

A play where the defensive team sends players rushing towards the line of scrimmage as soon as the ball is snapped to try to sack the quarterback.

When a regional network TV affiliate is forbidden from showing a local game because it is not sold out.

Any player who has possession of the ball.