In American football, downs are the four chances an offense gets to move the ball at least 10 yards. First down is the first attempt, second and third down are the next tries, and fourth down is the last chance before the other team can take over if the offense doesn’t reach the needed yards.

How it works

  • First down: The drive starts here, usually with 10 yards to go for a new first down.
  • Second down: The offense still has three more tries left to reach the 10-yard target.
  • Third down: This is often a very important play, because teams are trying hard to avoid giving the ball away.
  • Fourth down: The final try. Teams usually either punt, try a field goal, or “go for it.”

Simple example

If a team gains 4 yards on first down, the next play is 2nd and 6 — meaning it is second down and they still need 6 yards for a new first down. If they reach 10 yards total before the four plays run out, the downs reset back to first down.

Easy way to think about it

A down is basically one play , and the offense is trying to string together enough plays to keep moving toward the end zone. If they fail to gain the needed yards after four downs, possession changes to the other team.

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