In American Football, every possession starts with the “first down” (1st down). As all progress in a game is measured in yards, the offensive team always tries to move towards the opponent team’s end zone.
A player celebrates a 1st down after making a reception during the 2nd quarter of an NFL football game
When the offensive team earns the “first down”, it means that the offensive team has moved the ball successfully for more than 10 yards or so.