carry the ball

1. Take charge, advance a cause, as in In our lab any of the assistants can carry the ball. This usage comes from such sports as football, where the ball-carrying player gives the team yardage or a touchdown. By the early 1900s it was being transferred to other endeavors.

Example Sentences

Botterman's scrummaging has improved under Mitchell to earn a regular starting spot, but it is her ability to make turnovers and carry the ball into heavy traffic that are her foremost strengths.

From BBC

Grealish wasn't played centrally and didn't drop deep to try to carry the ball upfield, like he did in his time at Villa.

From BBC

Kyren Williams will carry the ball for the Rams this season and beyond.

From Los Angeles Times

She likes to carry the ball past players and get in the box.

From BBC

He has the power and strength to carry the ball forward.

From BBC