Lesson 1 of 3
How downs and distance work
The offense has the ball and tries to advance it. The defense tries to stop that advance or take possession. Before a play from scrimmage, notice the starting line and how far the offense needs to go.
NFL rules · worked example
Down and distance: watch the target
A down is an attempt. The offense has four downs to reach its target while keeping possession. The target starts 10 yards ahead, unless the goal line is closer. Reaching it earns a new series; falling short after four downs gives the other team a new series.
Follow two plays with no penalties or turnovers.
- Down
- 1st
- Yards to go
- 10
Ball: Own 40
Target: Midfield 50
Start: first down, 10 yards to go. The target is midfield.
Watch for this: When does the target move?
What to notice on the next play
Find the team with the ball, read the down and distance, then locate the first-down target. After the play ends, check which of those changed.