running game

noun

variants or less commonly run game

plural running games also run games

American football

: offensive play in which the ball is snapped or handed to a player who attempts to run toward the end zone to score

Those scores came amid a game plan that focused on the running game and short passing game …

—Nick Pugliese

He also did significant damage in the running game, carrying seven times for 40 yards.

—Bob Brookover

… the Jaguars stayed with the running game, using a variety of direct snaps to backs …

—Aimee Ford Foster

… developing a good run game could unlock their offensive potential and should be the team's first priority.

—Cayden Steele

compare passing game

Examples of running game in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

However, the line still struggled against Wisconsin, allowing quarterback Jayden Maiava to get sacked five times and playing a factor in the Trojans’ limited run game. — Sean Campbell, Los Angeles Times, 30 Oct. 2026

In addition, outside linebackers coach/run game specialist AC Carter will expand his responsibilities to include coaching the defensive line — Wash’s previous position group. — Alex Zietlow, Charlotte Observer, 30 Oct. 2026

But the contribution of the offensive line — center Aaron Brewer, left guard Kadyn Proctor, left tackle Patrick Paul, right guard Jonah Savaiinaea and right tackle Austin Jackson — in both the pass game and run game shouldn’t be underestimated. — Chris Perkins, Sun Sentinel, 27 Oct. 2026

But his exemplary work both in the pass and run game Sunday made the notion of a future with Willis easier to envision. — Barry Jackson, Miami Herald, 26 Oct. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1910, in the meaning defined above