What To Know
- A field goal is worth 3 points and is scored by kicking the ball through the goalposts from within a certain distance.
- A safety is worth 2 points and is scored when an offensive player is tackled in his own end zone by a defensive player.
- The quarterback is the leader of the offense and is responsible for calling plays and distributing the ball to other players.
American football is a sport that requires a combination of strength, speed, strategy, and teamwork. Whether you’re a seasoned veteran or a complete novice, understanding the fundamentals is key to enjoying and succeeding in this thrilling game. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the basics of how to play American football step by step, from the equipment and rules to the positions and strategies.
Understanding the Basics: The Field and Equipment
American football is played on a rectangular field measuring 100 yards long and 53.3 yards wide. The field is marked with yard lines every ten yards, and the end zones are marked by goalposts. The game is played with an oval-shaped ball, and players wear protective gear, including helmets, pads, and cleats.
The Game’s Objective: Scoring Points
The ultimate goal of American football is to score more points than the opposing team. Points can be scored in several ways:
- Touchdown: A touchdown is worth 6 points and is scored by carrying or catching the ball into the opposing team’s end zone.
- Extra Point: After a touchdown, the team has the opportunity to kick the ball through the goalposts for an extra point (1 point).
- Two-Point Conversion: Alternatively, the team can attempt a two-point conversion by running or passing the ball into the end zone (2 points).
- Field Goal: A field goal is worth 3 points and is scored by kicking the ball through the goalposts from within a certain distance.
- Safety: A safety is worth 2 points and is scored when an offensive player is tackled in his own end zone by a defensive player.
The Positions: Offense, Defense, and Special Teams
American football is played with two teams of 11 players each. Each team has three main units: offense, defense, and special teams.
Offense: The offensive team’s goal is to score points by moving the ball down the field and into the end zone. The offensive players have specific positions:
- Quarterback (QB): The quarterback is the leader of the offense and is responsible for calling plays and distributing the ball to other players.
- Running Back (RB): The running back carries the ball and tries to gain yardage by running.
- Wide Receiver (WR): Wide receivers run routes to get open and catch passes from the quarterback.
- Tight End (TE): A tight end can line up as a receiver or a blocker, offering versatility to the offense.
- Offensive Line (OL): The offensive line consists of five players who protect the quarterback and create running lanes for the running backs.
Defense: The defensive team‘s goal is to stop the offense from scoring points. Defensive players also have specific positions:
- Defensive Line (DL): The defensive line consists of four players who try to disrupt the offensive line and tackle the quarterback or running back.
- Linebackers (LB): Linebackers are responsible for covering running plays and stopping passes.
- Defensive Backs (DB): Defensive backs cover the wide receivers and try to intercept passes.
Special Teams: Special teams are used for kicking plays:
- Kicker: The kicker is responsible for kicking field goals and extra points.
- Punter: The punter kicks the ball downfield when the offense fails to gain a first down.
- Returner: The returner catches punts and kickoffs and tries to return them for yardage.
The Play: Downs, Yards, and First Downs
The game is played in a series of downs. Each team has four downs to advance the ball at least ten yards. If they succeed in gaining ten yards or more, they get a new set of four downs. This is called a “first down.” If they fail to gain ten yards, the other team takes possession of the ball.
Understanding the Rules: Penalties and Referees
American football is a complex game with many rules. Here are some of the key rules:
- Offside: A player is offside if he crosses the line of scrimmage before the ball is snapped.
- Holding: A player is holding if he grabs or restricts the movement of an opponent illegally.
- Pass Interference: A player is committing pass interference if he hinders a receiver’s ability to catch a pass.
- Fumbles: A fumble occurs when a player loses possession of the ball while running or passing.
- Interceptions: An interception occurs when a defensive player catches a pass intended for an offensive player.
The game is officiated by seven referees who enforce the rules and make calls. If a penalty is called, the penalized team will be moved back a certain number of yards.
Strategies: Offensive and Defensive Formations
Both offense and defense use different formations and strategies to gain an advantage.
Offensive Formations:
- Shotgun Formation: The quarterback lines up behind the center, several yards back from the line of scrimmage, allowing for a quicker pass.
- I-Formation: The running back lines up directly behind the quarterback, offering a strong running game.
- Spread Formation: Wide receivers are spread out wide, creating more passing options for the quarterback.
Defensive Formations:
- 4-3 Defense: Four defensive linemen, three linebackers, and four defensive backs.
- 3-4 Defense: Three defensive linemen, four linebackers, and four defensive backs.
- Nickel Defense: Five defensive backs, used to counter teams with a lot of passing plays.
The Final Drive: Winning the Game
The game ends when one team has scored more points than the other. The team with the most points at the end of the game wins.
The Thrill of the Game: Beyond the Basics
Learning the basics of how to play American football is just the beginning. The game is full of excitement, strategy, and athleticism. As you continue to learn and experience the game, you’ll discover the nuances and intricacies that make it so fascinating and popular.
Answers to Your Most Common Questions
Q: What is the difference between a forward pass and a lateral pass?
A: A forward pass is thrown in the direction the offense is moving, while a lateral pass is thrown sideways or backward. Only the quarterback can throw a forward pass.
Q: What is a turnover?
A: A turnover occurs when the offensive team loses possession of the ball to the defensive team. This can happen through an interception, a fumble, or a failed fourth-down attempt.
Q: What is a penalty yard?
A: A penalty yard is a yardage penalty assessed to a team for committing a foul. The penalized team will be moved back a certain number of yards from their current position.
Q: What is the difference between a touchdown and a field goal?
A: A touchdown is scored when a player carries or catches the ball into the end zone, while a field goal is scored by kicking the ball through the goalposts.
Q: What is the role of the coach in American football?
A: The coach is responsible for creating game plans, making strategic decisions during the game, and motivating the players. They also oversee the team’s practice schedule and player development.
