lateral pass
Plural
lateral passes
1
a pass in sports, typically football or rugby, where the ball is passed sideways or backwards to a teammate
A lateral pass is a type of pass in sports like football or rugby, where the ball is thrown or kicked sideways to a teammate, rather than forward. The goal of a lateral pass is to maintain possession of the ball and set up a better play. Unlike a forward pass, which moves the ball toward the opponent's end zone, a lateral pass keeps the ball in line with the player or slightly to the side. It is allowed in many sports but requires careful timing and accuracy to avoid turnovers.
- He made a quick lateral pass to his teammate on the wing.
- The rugby player's lateral pass set up a scoring opportunity.
- They used lateral passes to maintain possession of the ball.
- The quarterback's lateral pass was intercepted by the defense.
- The team practiced lateral passes during their training session.
Synonyms: