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

The defense’s job will be somewhat easier without a quality run game to support Fifita as the Wildcats rank 15th in the Big 12 in rushing, one spot ahead of last place TCU. — Steven Johnson, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 4 Nov. 2026

After building a big lead, the Bulldogs’ run game wore down the Gators and finished with 217 yards. — Edgar Thompson, The Orlando Sentinel, 3 Nov. 2026

Despite making a significant addition to its offensive line with the trade for Nelson and return of both Price and Charbonnet, Seattle's run game wasn't a big factor. — ABC News, 3 Nov. 2026

The reports have Joe getting $108 million for six years so that Joe can tell us that one of the teams on the field needs to establish a run game. — Assistant Sports Editor, Los Angeles Times, 3 Nov. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1910, in the meaning defined above