Stiff Arm Meaning in American Football

A stiff arm describes a runner pushing a defender away using an arm. Ball carriers extend one arm to create distance from tacklers. The extended arm contacts the defender’s shoulder or chest area. This action helps the runner maintain forward momentum. Runners keep the ball secured in the opposite arm. Maintaining balance remains essential during stiff arm execution. Strong arm extension prevents defenders from reaching the runner’s body. Quick timing allows the move before the defender establishes a tackle. Runners usually apply the stiff arm during open field situations. Consider a running play advancing toward the right sideline. A defender approaches quickly to attempt a tackle. The runner extends an arm toward the defender’s shoulder. The push disrupts the defender’s tackling angle. The runner continues forward and gains additional yards. Coaches train runners to combine balance and arm strength. Effective stiff arms often extend plays and increase total yardage gained.