# run for the roses

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/run-for-the-roses
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

A college football game or series of games played with the ultimate goal of qualifying for the championship Rose Bowl game.

## Examples

- The team hopes to run for the roses this season.
- After winning their last five games, the players are focused on their goal to run for the roses.
- With the conference championship within reach, the coach reminded his squad that they must win every remaining game if they intend to run for the roses.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.