What it is

A turnover on downs happens when the offense fails to get a first down on fourth down, and the other team takes over where the ball is.

In a game

Teams often choose to punt or kick, but a team may go for it when the distance is short or the game is close.

More detail

The defense gets the ball at the spot of the failed play, which can mean a short field. That is why coaches think about field position before going for it on fourth down.