General
touchback
What does touchback mean?
When a kicked ball is downed or goes out of the end zone, resulting in the receiving team starting from a designated yard line.
"The kickoff sailed through the end zone for a touchback."
Origin
American football; the ball is touched down in the receiving team's own end zone.
Frequently asked questions
What is a touchback in football?
It happens when a kicked ball is downed or goes out of the end zone, and the receiving team starts its drive from a set yard line instead of returning it.
Where does the ball go after a touchback?
On kickoffs the ball is placed at the receiving team's 25 or 30-yard line depending on the league and rules; on punts and other kicks it's the 20.
What's the difference between a touchback and a safety?
A touchback isn't a score; a safety awards two points to the defense when the offense is tackled in its own end zone. The end zone possession is the key difference.
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