Questions: The reason that the 40 yard dash is used is: It is the point at which maximum speed can be attained. It is the largest estimate of an all-out sprint a football player would run. The 40 yard dash, combined with the first 10 yard set equals 50 yards. It is the minimum distance to achieve top speed for longer than 10 yards.

The answer is the second one: It is the largest estimate of an all-out sprint a football player would run.

Explanation for each option:

1. It is the point at which maximum speed can be attained.

   • This is incorrect because maximum speed can be attained before 40 yards. The 40-yard dash is not specifically about reaching maximum speed but rather about measuring speed over a short distance.

2. It is the largest estimate of an all-out sprint a football player would run.

   • This is correct. The 40-yard dash is used because it is a common distance that approximates the longest sprint a football player would typically run in a game situation, such as during a kickoff return or a breakaway play.

3. The 40 yard dash, combined with the first 10 yard set equals 50 yards.

   • This is incorrect and somewhat nonsensical. The 40-yard dash is a standalone measure and does not combine with any other distance to make 50 yards.

4. It is the minimum distance to achieve top speed for longer than 10 yards.

   • This is incorrect. While the 40-yard dash does allow players to reach and maintain top speed, it is not specifically chosen for this reason. The focus is more on the overall sprinting ability over a distance relevant to football plays.

Summary: The 40-yard dash is used because it represents the longest distance a football player would typically sprint at full speed during a game, making it a relevant measure of a player's speed and explosiveness.