first down

noun

Football.

1. the first of four consecutive plays during which an offensive team must advance the ball at least ten yards to retain possession of it.

2. a gain of ten or more yards by an offensive team that entitles it to continued possession for a new series of downs.

Example Sentences

Over their next four drives, Philadelphia punted four times and gained only one first down.

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That jubilation didn’t last long for the Chargers, as they were flagged for roughing the punter, giving the visitors a first down.

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Facing a fourth-and-two from their 48, the Broncos made it look like they planned to run for the first down.

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Late in the first quarter against the Texans, Nacua caught a pass for a first down, and then left the field and went to the locker room, where he was evaluated for a concussion and received stitches.

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On the Rams’ third play, Adams absorbed a major hit after converting a third down, but he popped to his feet and pointed downfield, signaling first down.

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