Key Rules & Fouls to Know

These core rules keep the game fair and non-contact.

Downs & Possession:

• The offense has 4 downs to cross midfield. After crossing, they get 4 more downs to score.
• Failing to advance turns the ball over to the opponent at their own 5-yard line.

The Quarterback Rule:

• The quarterback (the player who receives the snap) cannot run the ball forward. They must hand off, lateral, or pass.
• The QB has 7 seconds to release a pass — after that the play is dead.

No Fumbles:

• A dropped ball or muffed snap is immediately dead at the spot — no scrambling for loose balls!

Common Fouls to Avoid:

• Flag guarding — blocking a defender from pulling your flag with your hand, arm, or the ball.
• Diving or leaping forward to gain yards — this is illegal.
• Defensive pass interference — impeding a receiver before the ball arrives.
• Illegal rush — a defender within 7 yards of the line cannot cross before the ball is handed off or passed. Only 2 blitzers maximum are allowed.
• Offside — entering the neutral zone before the snap.

Penalties result in yardage losses of commonly 5 or 10 yards.