American Football Downs Explained

By Rosa Lindgren · Published Sep 10, 2026 · 5 min read

In this guide

First and ten
Reading the score bug
Fourth down decisions
Scoring
Analytics and fourth downs

American football can seem complicated, but much of it is built on one simple idea: the offence has four attempts, called downs, to move the ball ten yards.

Once you understand downs, the strategy starts to make sense.

First and ten

When a team starts a set of downs, it is “first and ten” — first attempt, ten yards to go. If the team gains ten yards within four downs, it earns a new first down.

Reading the score bug

“Third and 4” means it is the third attempt with four yards needed for a first down.

Fourth down decisions

Punt: kick the ball away to push the opponent back
Field goal: kick for three points if close enough
Go for it: try to gain the needed yards; failure gives the ball to the opponent

Scoring

A touchdown is worth six points, followed by an extra-point kick (one point) or a two-point conversion. A field goal is three points; a safety is two.

Analytics and fourth downs

Data analysis has led many teams to “go for it” on fourth down more often than in the past.

This is general sports information and commentary. Rules, schedules, and records change — check official league, federation, and event sources for the latest details. Consult a qualified coach or medical professional before starting a new training programme.

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