Drive Meaning in American Football

A drive refers to a series of plays by one team while it has the ball. This sequence matters because it shows how an offense moves down the field. Drives can end with scores, punts, or turnovers. Coaches judge efficiency by drive results. Time of possession often depends on long drives. Sustained drives tire the defense. Play selection changes during a drive. Momentum builds through success. For example, an offense completes a twelve-play drive and scores a touchdown.