carry the ball

VERB

assume the leading role

Synonyms

WEAK

bear the burden carry on carry one's weight carry through do one's part make go perform

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

With City's attackers waiting before dropping deep, City's defenders are able to carry the ball into the space that opens up.

From BBC • Feb. 19, 2026

When USC was without its top two backs for the Las Vegas Bowl in December, Jackson stepped in to carry the ball 16 times for 66 yards and a touchdown.

From Los Angeles Times • Oct. 14, 2025

“I might have to carry the ball some,” Riley quipped during NBC’s broadcast.

From Los Angeles Times • Oct. 14, 2025

She likes to carry the ball past players and get in the box.

From BBC • Jul. 16, 2025

Since Dad went to church only if one of us was being christened—in other words, about once a year—Mother had to carry the ball when it came to enrolling us in Sunday school.

From "Cheaper by the Dozen" by Frank B. Gilbreth Jr. and Ernestine Gilbreth Carey