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

Kyren Williams will carry the ball for the Rams this season and beyond.

From Los Angeles Times • Aug. 5, 2025

Rookie Blake Corum, a third-round pick who did not carry the ball against the Lions, rushed for 28 yards in eight carries.

From Los Angeles Times • Sep. 16, 2024

"He would carry the ball back like a guided missile and had so many ways to beat the challenge of a defender," he said.

From BBC • Mar. 1, 2024

This time, however, Francis did not carry the ball and on subsequent days maintained that the evidence for a TMV helix was only so-so.

From "Double Helix" by James D. Watson