line of scrimmage

American  

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.

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line of scrimmage British  

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

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Etymology

Origin of line of scrimmage

First recorded in 1905–10

Example Sentences

He wants his quarterbacks to call their own play at the line of scrimmage based on how the defense is lined up.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 4, 2026

But under pressure, Williams retreated so far to buy himself time that he found himself 26.5 yards behind the line of scrimmage when he threw the ball.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 19, 2026

Instead, while players from both teams piled up near the line of scrimmage, he spun out to the right and ran untouched into the end zone for a 35-yard, game-winning score.

From The Wall Street Journal • Nov. 17, 2025

That wasn’t indicative of what was to come, however, as Jacksonville dominated the line of scrimmage and the Chargers were as mild as the balmy day.

From Los Angeles Times • Nov. 16, 2025

Right before coming to the line of scrimmage, McDougal turned to Bevers and said simply, “This is it.”

From "Friday Night Lights: A Town, A Team, And A Dream" by H.G. Bissinger