line of scrimmage

noun

, Football.

1. an imaginary line parallel to the goal lines that passes from one sideline to the other through the point of the football closest to the goal line of each team.

line of scrimmage

noun

1. American football an imaginary line, parallel to the goal lines, on which the ball is placed at the start of a down and on either side of which the offense and defense line up

Word History and Origins

Origin of line of scrimmage¹

First recorded in 1905–10

Example Sentences

Too many missed blocks at the line of scrimmage and tackles in the open field.

From Los Angeles Times

Standing on the sideline, Harbaugh is often side by side with an official near the line of scrimmage and said he tries to voice opinions about officiating on Herbert.

From Los Angeles Times

Scanning the players across the line of scrimmage, he examines body positioning and mannerisms that can provide a tipoff.

From Los Angeles Times

Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford will see a familiar face when he stares across the line of scrimmage Sunday against the Seattle Seahawks.

From Los Angeles Times

“I mean, you give him the ball at the line of scrimmage, he turns that thing into 20, 40 yards. Today, he turned it into a house call.”

From Los Angeles Times