Since we are deep into Superbowl season,I was reminded of this thread watching the many games. The QB can run with the ball and make the touchdown himself if the situation warrants. It's just that passing it gets it further down field toward the goal line than carrying it does. For instance, in a scrimmage at the 1 yard line, he can keep the ball and dive over the other team.
Another important play is "sacking" the quarterback. The defensive team prevents the QB from throwing the ball by pulling him down to the ground. This doesn't happen often if the QB's team protects him sufficiently.
Yeah, I can't get cricket at all. It's a total mystery to me.
Artemis