What is a football "sweep"?

What is a football "sweep"?

• A. A type of play aimed at creating space by moving the ball efficiently
• B. A defensive strategy to block opposing players
• C. A formation used for counter-attacks
• D. A method of time-wasting in the game

Answer: (A)

A football "sweep" refers to a specific type of offensive play designed to create space for the ball carrier by moving laterally across the field. In this play, the offensive team typically utilizes their offensive line and sometimes a tight end to block for the running back or ball carrier as they go toward the sideline. This movement aims to take advantage of gaps in the defense, allowing the ball carrier to gain yardage by getting to the outside or around the edge. The strategy often involves deception and timing, as it may draw defenders to one side of the field, creating opportunities for the offense to exploit the defense's positioning. The sweep can effectively stretch the defense horizontally, creating lanes for the runner to navigate. The other options do not accurately represent what a sweep entails. A defensive strategy focused on blocking opposing players is more about containment rather than creating space for offensive plays. A formation for counter-attacks refers to a tactical setup rather than a specific play that moves the ball. Time-wasting methods usually involve strategic delays rather than active plays designed to gain yardage.

A football "sweep" refers to a specific type of offensive play designed to create space for the ball carrier by moving laterally across the field. In this play, the offensive team typically utilizes their offensive line and sometimes a tight end to block for the running back or ball carrier as they go toward the sideline. This movement aims to take advantage of gaps in the defense, allowing the ball carrier to gain yardage by getting to the outside or around the edge.

The strategy often involves deception and timing, as it may draw defenders to one side of the field, creating opportunities for the offense to exploit the defense's positioning. The sweep can effectively stretch the defense horizontally, creating lanes for the runner to navigate.

The other options do not accurately represent what a sweep entails. A defensive strategy focused on blocking opposing players is more about containment rather than creating space for offensive plays. A formation for counter-attacks refers to a tactical setup rather than a specific play that moves the ball. Time-wasting methods usually involve strategic delays rather than active plays designed to gain yardage.