Short Answer
Complete Explanation
The term “defer” in football is a specific option offered to the team that wins the opening coin toss. Instead of choosing to receive the kickoff or select a goal line, the team may elect to defer its choice to the start of the second half. This rule is standard in both the National Football League (NFL) and college football under NCAA regulations.
- Definition:
To defer means to postpone the right to select possession or field side until the second half of the game. - Typical Use During Coin Toss:
When a team wins the toss, it can: (1) receive the kickoff, (2) choose which goal to defend, (3) defer its choice, allowing the opponent to decide the first-half options while the deferring team gets the first choice in the second half. - Strategic Considerations:
Coaches often defer to gain the advantage of the opening kickoff in the second half, especially in games where weather or momentum may shift after halftime. - Other Contexts:
While most common in the toss, “defer” can also appear in rule discussions where a penalty or review is postponed to a later point in the game. - Regulatory Basis:
The NFL Rulebook (Rule 7, Section 1) and NCAA Football Rules (Rule 8‑2‑1) explicitly define the defer option and its procedural handling.
Common Misconceptions
Deferring means a team forfeits the chance to receive the kickoff entirely.
The team still receives the kickoff at the start of the second half, giving it a strategic advantage later in the game.
Only professional teams can defer during the coin toss.
Both professional (NFL) and amateur (NCAA, high school) levels use the defer option under their respective rule sets.
FAQ
Why would a team choose to defer instead of receiving the kickoff?
Deferring lets a team start the second half with the kickoff, which can be advantageous if the coach expects better field position or wants to capitalize on halftime adjustments.
Can a team change its decision after deferring?
No. Once a team elects to defer, the decision is final for that game; the opponent's first-half choice stands, and the deferring team automatically receives the second-half option.
Is the defer option available in all levels of football?
The defer option is standard in the NFL, NCAA, and most organized high school football leagues, though some informal or youth leagues may omit it.
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