The Anatomy of a Carry
An in-depth analysis of the rushing attempt, its statistical significance, and its place in the strategic landscape of American football.
Understand Carries ๐ Explore Metrics ๐Dive in with Flashcard Learning!
๐ฎ Play the Wiki2Web Clarity Challenge Game๐ฎ
What is a Carry?
The Rushing Attempt
In gridiron football, a carry, also known as a rushing attempt, is the fundamental statistical term for a single instance of a player carrying the ball on the ground.[1] This action is central to the running game, involving a player advancing the ball by possession while moving forward.
The Ball-Carrier
While running backs are primarily tasked with carrying the ball, any offensive player who possesses and advances the ball during a rushing play is considered the ball-carrier for that specific down. The yards gained from such an attempt are recorded as rushing yards.[1]
Key Metrics
Yards Per Carry (YPC)
A critical efficiency metric in football is yards per carry (YPC). This statistic is calculated by dividing the total rushing yards gained by the number of carries.[2] It provides insight into how effectively a player or team gains yardage on the ground with each attempt.
Efficiency Leader
Among players with a significant number of carries, former quarterback Michael Vick holds the record for the highest career yards-per-carry average in the National Football League (NFL).[2] His exceptional mobility and ability to gain significant yardage on designed runs and scrambles contributed to this distinction.
Rules & Nuances
Sack Yardage Distinction
The statistical treatment of yardage lost due to sacks differs between collegiate (NCAA) and professional (NFL) football. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for accurate statistical analysis.
Record Holders
Most Career Carries
In the history of the National Football League (NFL), the record for the most career carries belongs to Emmitt Smith. Over his illustrious career, Smith accumulated a remarkable 4,409 rushing attempts, establishing him as one of the most durable and prolific ball-carriers in the league's history.[1]
Teacher's Corner
Edit and Print this course in the Wiki2Web Teacher Studio

Click here to open the "Carry Gridiron Football" Wiki2Web Studio curriculum kit
Use the free Wiki2web Studio to generate printable flashcards, worksheets, exams, and export your materials as a web page or an interactive game.
True or False?
Test Your Knowledge!
Gamer's Corner
Are you ready for the Wiki2Web Clarity Challenge?

Unlock the mystery image and prove your knowledge by earning trophies. This simple game is addictively fun and is a great way to learn!
Play now
References
References
Feedback & Support
To report an issue with this page, or to find out ways to support the mission, please click here.
Disclaimer
Important Notice
This page was generated by an Artificial Intelligence and is intended for informational and educational purposes only. The content is based on a snapshot of publicly available data from Wikipedia and may not be entirely accurate, complete, or up-to-date.
This is not professional sports analysis or coaching advice. The information provided on this website is not a substitute for professional statistical analysis, strategic consultation, or coaching. Always refer to official league rules and consult with qualified sports analysts or coaches for specific insights or guidance.
The creators of this page are not responsible for any errors or omissions, or for any actions taken based on the information provided herein.