Backdoor Cover
A late score that affects the betting spread without changing the likely game winner.
Glossary category
College Football Football Slang Glossary
These plain-English definitions cover informal phrases that show up in broadcasts, social posts, and weekly discussion.
Back to all glossary termsTop Football Slang Terms
Backdoor CoverA late score that affects the betting spread without changing the likely game winner.Body-Bag GameA slang term for a lopsided guarantee game where an overmatched team is paid to play a stronger opponent.Cover the SpreadTo beat the point spread in betting terms.CupcakeA weaker opponent scheduled by a stronger program, usually in nonconference play.Letdown SpotA game where a team may underperform after an emotional or high-profile win.Lookahead SpotA game before a major matchup where a team may be distracted by the upcoming opponent.Moral VictoryA loss viewed positively because the team performed better than expected.Rivalry GameA game between programs with historical, regional, conference, or cultural rivalry.
All Football Slang Definitions
12 terms
Body-Bag Game
A slang term for a lopsided guarantee game where an overmatched team is paid to play a stronger opponent.
Cover the Spread
To beat the point spread in betting terms.
Cupcake
A weaker opponent scheduled by a stronger program, usually in nonconference play.
Letdown Spot
A game where a team may underperform after an emotional or high-profile win.
Lookahead Spot
A game before a major matchup where a team may be distracted by the upcoming opponent.
Moral Victory
A loss viewed positively because the team performed better than expected.
Rivalry Game
A game between programs with historical, regional, conference, or cultural rivalry.
Spoiler
A team that damages another team's championship, bowl, or playoff hopes.
Trap Game
A game where a favored team may overlook an opponent because of schedule context.
Trenches
A phrase referring to offensive and defensive line play.
Upset
A win by a team expected to lose.