Football 101

Basic Plays

When the offense (the team in control of the ball) tries to come up with clever ways to move the ball downfield, it's called a play. The defense, on the other hand, moves around into different formations to best react to the clever plays of the offense.

Printer-Friendly Version

Running PlaysPassing Plays
Trap - The trap is a running play where the offensive line allows a defensive lineman to cross the line of scrimmage without blocking him (designated by the X). The defensive player thinks he is free to tackle the running back because no one is standing in front of him. What he does not see is the guard from the opposite side of the line who is running full speed (or pulling) in his direction. The guard hits the defensive player and forces him out of the area, creating an open space for the running back to run through.

© 2010 NFL Properties LLC. Team names/logos are trademarks of the teams indicated.