In American football the "third down and short" situation occurs often. The probabilities of obtaining a first down, shown below, are dependent on the choice of the offense and the anticipated choice of the defense. In such situations, what is the optimal solution for the defense?
A) always anticipate a run
B) always anticipate a pass
C) anticipate a run more often than a pass
D) anticipate a pass more often than a run

Question

In American football the "third down and short" situation occurs often. The probabilities of obtaining a first down, shown below, are dependent on the choice of the offense and the anticipated choice of the defense.  In such situations, what is the optimal solution for the defense?
A) always anticipate a run 
B) always anticipate a pass 
C) anticipate a run more often than a pass 
D) anticipate a pass more often than a run

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The probabilities of obtaining a first down shown in the given information suggest that the offense is more likely to run the ball in a third down and short situation. Therefore, the defense should anticipate a run more often than a pass to increase their chances of stopping the offense and preventing a first down.

In American Football the "Third Down and Short" Situation Occurs