touchback

[tuhch-bak]

noun

Football.

1. a play in which the ball is downed after having been kicked into the end zone by the opposing team or having been recovered or intercepted there, or in which it has been kicked beyond the end zone.

touchback

/ ˈtʌtʃˌbæk /

noun

1. American football a play in which the ball is put down by a player behind his own goal line when the ball has been put across the goal line by an opponent Compare safety

Word History and Origins

Origin of touchback¹

First recorded in 1885–90; touch + back ²

Example Sentences

His challenge has been increasing his strength to be able to power the football into the end zone on kickoffs, forcing a touchback.

From Los Angeles Times

There could be some tweaks, though, such as moving touchbacks from the 30-yard line to the 35.

From Los Angeles Times

He recorded just one touchback the entire season.

From Los Angeles Times

Maybe most mind-boggling of all, he has yet to record a touchback through 11 games this season.

From Los Angeles Times

He could have safely downed that one for a touchback, but then again…

From Los Angeles Times