A football drive commences when one team takes possession of the ball after a change of possession, such as a kickoff, punt, turnover, or safety. This initial possession marks the beginning of their attempt to advance the ball downfield toward the opponent’s end zone. For instance, following a kickoff, the receiving team’s possession initiates their opening drive.
The initial possession holds significant weight in establishing field position and momentum. A successful opening series can set the tone for a game, providing an early advantage. Conversely, a stalled opening drive can shift momentum to the opposing team. The evolution of kickoff rules and strategies over time highlights the ongoing emphasis placed on this critical phase of the game. Successful initial possessions frequently leverage a combination of strong running plays and well-timed passes to gain valuable yardage.
