FOOTBALL IN HIGH HEELS: RED ALERT!
As we continue in this journey of learning about football, I am realizing that there are more terms involved in the game than I ever knew possible! While it is a bit overwhelming, it is also fun to learn what everything means, and even funnier when I realize how off base my original thoughts were. Here are today’s five terms.
Offensive line—What It Means: This is a human wall of five men that block and protect the quarterback and ball carriers. The line consists of a center—who is responsible for snapping the ball—two guards, and two tackles.
What I Thought It Meant: The line of players whose main job was to offend the other side….the Plastics of football, if you will.
Punt—What It Means: This is a kick that is done when a player drops the ball and it falls toward his foot. It is usually made on a fourth down when the offense must surrender possession of the ball to the defense. This happens because it couldn’t advance ten yards.
What I Thought It Meant: I actually misread it as the word PUTZ and all I could hear in my mind was Sophia Petrillo calling Stan a YUTZ. Yeah, I have no idea, but I was watching The Golden Girls when resetting this, so there is that.
Red zone—What It Means: This is the unofficial area from the 20-yard line to the opponent’s goal line. When an opponent is held to a field goal in this area, it is considered a moral victory for the defense.
What I Thought It Meant: I always thought this was a type of Mountain Dew, only to find out that it is actually called Code Red. I was wrong on all counts, but I sure do miss that flavor.
Return—What It means: When a kick or punt is received, leading to the player running toward the opponent’s goal line with the intent of scoring or gaining significant yardage.
What I Thought It Meant: Returning the ball to the other team after a bad play.
Rushing—What It Means:Advancing the ball by running, rather than passing. A running back is often referred to as a rusher.
What I Thought It Meant: The equivalent to Rush Week in a sorority.
Stay tuned for more tomorrow!
