How is the 'lead jammer' determined in a game?

The determination of the 'lead jammer' is based on the first jammer who passes all of the opposing team's blockers legally. This is a crucial rule in roller derby because the lead jammer has the strategic advantage of being able to call off the jam at any time, which can be vital for controlling the game’s pace and scoring opportunities.

To achieve this status, a jammer must navigate through the opposing blockers, ensuring all movements are within the legal parameters of play, such as not using illegal tactics like elbows or forearms to pass the blockers. The skills involved in maneuvering past blockers—like speed, agility, and timing—are essential components of roller derby gameplay.

The other options do not accurately represent the established rules for determining the lead jammer. For instance, the final score or individual times do not determine lead status, and referee discretion is not the basis for this decision, but rather the specific actions taken on the track during gameplay.