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

Botterman's scrummaging has improved under Mitchell to earn a regular starting spot, but it is her ability to make turnovers and carry the ball into heavy traffic that are her foremost strengths.

From BBC • Sep. 25, 2025

He’s able to carry the ball 29, 28, 27 times.

From Los Angeles Times • Dec. 26, 2024

Expect to see more opportunities for Vaki next weekend at USC … because who wouldn’t want to carry the ball against USC?

From Seattle Times • Oct. 15, 2023

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