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
Cite this Entry
“Running game.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/running%20game. Accessed 20 Oct. 2026.
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