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.

“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

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

But an opportunist kick from Theo Dan gave Saracens the advantage, forcing Redpath to chase back and carry the ball over the line to gift them a scrum five metres out.

From BBC • Apr. 26, 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