Summary of the Sport:
Rule: |
Description: |
Object of the Game |
The object of the game is to score points by carrying the ball beyond the opponents touch line. (Each such instance is called a touch down). |
Time Limit |
Two 20-minute halves with a 10-minute half time. The game clock stops frequently between plays. |
The Ball |
A prolate spheroid which is about 11 inches (28 cm) long and about 22 inches (56 cm) in circumference at the center and weighs around 0.875lbs. Smaller balls may be used for both youth & recreational play. |
Number of Referees |
4 referees |
Protective Gear |
Players are only allowed modest padding on Head, Shoulders, Collarbone etc. Only a mouthguard is required. |
Number of Chances to Advance the Ball |
4 for every 15 yards. Called Downs. |
Contact? |
Only blocking from the front. No tackling from the side. |
Scoring Methods |
Touchdown (6): Run/Pass Conversion (1/2) Safety (3) |
7-man Football Field:
- 80yds x 40yds (240’ x 120’).
- End-zones = 10yds each (30’).
- Ball = American football (any size is legal).
- Each team gets 3 timeouts for each half.
- The ball is live under almost all circumstances during a legal play within bounds at any time during the game except for incomplete forward passes.
- Receivers need only one foot in bounds for a complete pass.
- # of Downs = 4 downs to gain 15 yards.
- Position of Lineman = The Defensive Line must line up at least 1 yard away from the Offensive Line.
- After a score, the team that was scored upon will start their next possession on the 15yd line.
- Flags are used, but limited contact is allowed:
- Linemen are allowed to block (from the front only) and engage each other, but all other players can only pull the flags if the player has the ball.
- 2 20-minute halves with a 10-minute halftime and 10-minute OT.
- The offense has 45 seconds from the referee's signal to begin a play.
- There is a mandatory play stoppage with 2 minutes remaining in each half.
- One-Platoon (everyone must play both offense & defense) & 7-a-side.
- Teams must field 8-24 players.
- Unlimited substitution is allowed, but only at stoppages in play but not used to hold up play.
- Positions = C/NG, OT/DT, QB/S, TB/LB, WR/CB.
- All offensive and defensive backfielders, except the quarterback, are allowed unlimited motion provided that they remain more than one yard behind the line of scrimmage, but the lineman may not move.
- Position of the Lineman = The Defensive line must line up 11' away from the Offensive line.
- If the ball is fumbled out of bounds, the play ends with possession of the ball going to the team who had the last contact with the ball in bounds after the ball has completely left the possession of the fumbling ball carrier.
- Kicking the ball is illegal.
- On 4th down, all teams must attempt to get a first down or score.
- Passing the ball backward/laterally.
- Running with the ball.
- Passing the ball forward: Once per down, passer must not pass Line of Scrimmage, all 7 players are eligible; only 1 foot is needed.
- All Possessions after a score will start on the 15yd line.
- Touchdown = 6 Points.
- 2yd Run/Pass Conversion = 1 point.
- 10yd Run/Pass Conversion = 2 points.
- Safety = 3 points
- T-shirt, shorts, football flags, AF gloves (optional) cleats (only on grass and turf):
- Knee + elbow pads are allowed if the player has a legitimate need for them.
- Similar to rugby, both teams must wear their dark color uniforms during games unless either 1) the teams share similar colors or 2) if someone is colorblind; If that is the case, the designated home team will wear their dark color uniforms and the away team will wear either 1) their lighter color uniforms or 2) an alternative darker color uniform.
- Any player can wear any number they choose.
- If you don't follow these laws, you are likely to give away needless penalties.
- Fouls = Tripping, Striking, Kicking, Using foul language.
- Dangerous play = No player can make a challenge to put their opponents at risk on purpose, for example a head-high tackle.
- # of Referees = 1.
- If the referee sees or hears any of these things, an instant penalty will be called.