TLOS

In football, “TLOS” means “The Line Of Scrimmage.” The line of scrimmage is an important part of the game because it shows where on the field a play starts. This line doesn’t exist but goes from sideline to sideline and is straight across from the end zones.

In the game, the line of play works like this:

Plays Begin: The line of scrimmage is where all attacking plays begin. Before the game starts, the attacking team has to line up behind this line.

Neutral Zone: The neutral zone is the place right above the line of scrimmage. Until the play starts, only the person who snaps the ball (usually the center) can be in this area.

Defenders must stay on their side of the line of scrimmage until the game starts. A player is “offside” if they cross the line before the game starts.

Using the line of play is also possible to figure out how fast the ball is moving forward. For example, when officials decide if a team has a first down, they look at where the ball is about the line of play at the start of the down.

To fully understand American football techniques and rules, you must first understand the line of scrimmage.