What it is

A sweep is a running play where the back runs wide, around the end of the line, with blockers leading the way in front of him.

In a game

Guards or other linemen often pull away from their spots and run around the end to clear a path. The ball carrier follows them and turns upfield when he finds space.

More detail

A sweep works best with a fast runner and strong blocking at the edge. If the defense gets there first, the play can lose yards, so teams call it when they think they have the speed advantage.

Animated diagram

1. The running back takes the ball and runs wide toward the sideline.
2. Two guards leave their spots and run around the end to block in front of him.
3. He follows them and turns upfield when he sees an open lane.