downfield

American  

[doun-feeld] / ˈdaʊnˈfild /

adverb

Football.

1. past the line of scrimmage and at or toward the goal line of the defensive team.

   He sent his receivers downfield. Downfield blocking is important on passes.

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Etymology

Origin of downfield

First recorded in 1940–45; down ¹ + field

Example Sentences

But instead of inching toward a potential kick, Williams looked downfield and threw his third pick of the game.

From The Wall Street Journal

No matter which schemes opposing defenses cooked up, Seattle wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba found ways to break free and torch them downfield.

From The Wall Street Journal

If the Chargers can establish even a modest run game, it opens opportunities downfield off misdirection and play-action.

From Los Angeles Times

The quarterback slowly but surely moves the team downfield.

From The Wall Street Journal

Riley said Tuesday that Maiava’s inconsistencies of late were due to the caliber of defenses he’s faced — and circumstances that forced USC’s offense to be aggressive downfield.

From Los Angeles Times