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 Dolphins run game ranks ninth in the NFL while the Jets are tied for 23rd against the run. — David Furones, Sun Sentinel, 22 Oct. 2026

With a run game neutered by a stout Auburn front, the game was on his shoulders. — Connor Riley, AJC.com, 18 Oct. 2026

The Giants run game was 84 yards of forgettable New Jersey mileage. — Armando Salguero Outkick, FOXNews.com, 18 Oct. 2026

The Razorbacks' run game lifted them throughout, amassing 187 yards. — ABC News, 17 Oct. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1910, in the meaning defined above