Running out the clock

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In sports, running out the clock refers to the practice of a winning team allowing the clock to expire through a series of pre-selected plays, either to preserve a lead or hasten the end of a one-sided contest.

In American football, teams often execute the quarterback kneel, usually, if less than two minutes remain in the game; or, if more time is on the clock, "run the ball up the middle." Teams in the lead will generally take as much time off the play clock as possible before running the next play, and will try to use only those plays that will keep the clock operating.

In basketball, teams that are in the lead frequently use a lead protection offense in the late stages of a game - that is, go into a "stall" mode by holding the ball and passing sporadically. At levels where a shot clock is used, teams will only take shots if the clock is nearing zero. If the game is still somewhat competitive, the trailing team will foul the player with the ball to stop the clock and send him or her to the free throw line in hopes of regaining possession, even if it means the other team will score points.

A similar pattern of play can occur towards the end of soccer matches, with a team protecting a lead by retaining possession, standing on or crowding around a stationary ball, and generally trying to prevent the other team from gaining possession. Tactics like these are seen as unsporting in soccer; since 1994, the soccer world governing body FIFA has outlawed teams attempting to use stalling tactics (such as passing the ball back to the goalkeeper), and referees may yellow card any player they feel is excessively trying to kill the game and run out the clock.