What must an offense do to maintain possession of the ball?

What must an offense do to maintain possession of the ball?

• A. Complete a pass
• B. Score a touchdown every time
• C. Gain 10 yards in 4 downs
• D. Kick a field goal at least once

Answer: (C)

To maintain possession of the ball, an offense must gain 10 yards within four attempts, known as downs. This rule is fundamental to how the game of football is structured. It ensures that the offense consistently makes progress toward the opponent's end zone, encouraging strategic plays and teamwork. If the offense successfully advances at least 10 yards, they get another set of four downs to continue their drive. Failing to gain those 10 yards within the allotted downs results in a turnover, where the opposing team takes possession of the ball. Other choices do not reflect the basic requirement for maintaining possession of the ball. Completing a pass does not guarantee possession; it needs to be partnered with an advancement of yardage. Scoring a touchdown every time is not feasible since the offense has multiple opportunities to advance the ball without necessarily scoring on every drive. Kicking a field goal also does not equate to maintaining possession, as the primary objective is to advance the ball rather than convert points.

To maintain possession of the ball, an offense must gain 10 yards within four attempts, known as downs. This rule is fundamental to how the game of football is structured. It ensures that the offense consistently makes progress toward the opponent's end zone, encouraging strategic plays and teamwork. If the offense successfully advances at least 10 yards, they get another set of four downs to continue their drive. Failing to gain those 10 yards within the allotted downs results in a turnover, where the opposing team takes possession of the ball.

Other choices do not reflect the basic requirement for maintaining possession of the ball. Completing a pass does not guarantee possession; it needs to be partnered with an advancement of yardage. Scoring a touchdown every time is not feasible since the offense has multiple opportunities to advance the ball without necessarily scoring on every drive. Kicking a field goal also does not equate to maintaining possession, as the primary objective is to advance the ball rather than convert points.