Lateral pass - Definition and Overview

In American football and Canadian football a lateral pass — usually called simply a lateral — is a sideways or rearward throwing of the football to a teammate. The pass cannot itself advance the ball, though of course the receiver can advance after catching it. This is distinguished from a forward pass, which moves the ball closer to the goal.

There are virtually no restrictions on the use of laterals. Any number of laterals may be thrown in a given play. Any player may throw a lateral from any position on the field to any other player. If the defensive team takes possession of the ball, they may also freely throw laterals.

Unlike a forward pass, if a lateral is dropped, it is considered a fumble. The play continues, and any player may recover the ball and advance it.

In College football, the lateral is used more extensively than in professional football, more in the same manner as is done in rugby.