What it is

A goal-line stand is when a defense stops the offense from scoring a touchdown from very close to the goal line, often in several plays in a row.

In a game

The defense packs the line with big linemen and linebackers and tries to push the runner back. The offense has only a yard or two to go, so every inch matters.

More detail

Such stands are celebrated because they can swing a game. A team that stops an opponent on fourth down near the goal line gets the ball with a lot of field to cover.

Animated diagram

1. The offense is close to the goal line and needs only a yard or two.
2. The defense puts all its big players on the line, and the linebackers come close behind them.
3. The runner meets a wall and is stopped short of the goal line.