Bruce Dias 
Curious about a game that captivates millions? American Football, with its strategic plays and adrenaline-pumping action, is a central piece of North American sporting culture. It’s very different from the game of football (or soccer as it is widely known) played in most other parts of the world, and its rules can seem confusing to those new to the sport. But don’t worry – we’ve got you covered!
In this guide, we’ll break down the fundamentals of American Football and give you a solid understanding of the game. Before you know it, you’ll join legions of other fans across the globe – and perhaps feel confident enough to place a bet on your new favorite sports team.
The Objective of the Game
In American Football, the main goal is to accumulate more points than the opposing team by the end of the match. This requires moving the ball down the field strategically, aiming to reach the opponent’s end zone for a touchdown, which is worth six points.
Teams can advance the ball by either passing it to a teammate or rushing it forward. Each team is granted 4 attempts, known as downs, to cover a minimum of 10 yards. If they succeed, they earn a new set of downs to continue their push downfield. Failing to advance 10 yards in these downs results in the ball being turned over to the opposing team, shifting the role from offensive to defensive.
The team with the most points at the end of the game wins!
Players & Equipment
In American football, although only 11 players from each team are on the field at any given time, the full squad roster consists of about 45 players. These teams are strategically divided into three main groups: offensive, defensive, and special teams.
- Offensive players are typically smaller, faster, and stronger, with the quarterback as the central figure responsible for calling plays and passing the ball.
- Defensive players, on the other hand, are generally larger and more powerful, tasked with thwarting the opposing team’s advance.
- Special teams manage the kicking game, involving both larger and swift players for kickoffs and punts.
The field itself is approximately 100 yards long and 60 yards wide, marked by lines every 10 yards to guide gameplay. The end zones—a vital aspect of scoring—extend roughly 20 yards deep, with goalposts at both ends for field goals and extra points.
Scoring
Scoring in American Football can seem complicated, but let’s break it down. The most rewarding play is a touchdown, scoring your team six points. This happens when a player either carries the ball or receives a pass in the opposing end zone.
After a touchdown, teams can attempt a kick for an “extra point,” aiming to kick the ball through the opponent’s upright posts, adding one point. Alternatively, teams may try a two-point conversion by running or passing the ball into the end zone again.
Field goals, worth three points, can be attempted from anywhere during play, typically on the final down.
Lastly, safety grants two points to the defensive team when they tackle an opposing player inside their end zone.
Winning the Game
The thrill of American Football peaks when determining the winner. In standard play, the team with the highest score at the end clinches victory. However, if both teams are tied, they enter overtime. During this period, an extra quarter is played, ensuring a decisive, exhilarating conclusion.
It’s a nail-biting rollercoaster ride from start to finish – that’s why many people bet on NFL games. It’s a chance to predict who will win and by how much and enjoy even more excitement. FanDuel Sportsbook is a great place to get started on betting, learn how to bet, and predict like the pros. They have a wide selection of games available and plenty of to help beginners get under the skin of the game – and how to select a team that will reward both loyalty and wagers.
The Rules of American Football
- Game Duration: Every American football game consists of four quarters, each lasting 15 minutes, punctuated by strategic breaks – a 2-minute pause after the 1st and 3rd quarters and a 15-minute halftime.
- Gaining Yards: Teams have 4 downs to secure at least 10 yards to reset the count. They can either pass or run the ball to achieve this.
- Turnover on Downs: If a team fails to gain 10 yards after 4fourdowns, the ball is turned over to the opposing team, shifting control of the game.
- Plays and Routes: Teams devise hundreds of unique plays, creating organized chaos on the field. Players follow specific routes to execute the strategy called by the head coach or quarterback.
- Coin Toss and Kick-off: The game’s start features a coin toss to decide which team begins with the ball and the starting side. Kick-off follows, with one team punting the ball downfield to the opponent.
- Fourth Down Decisions: On the fourth down, teams may gamble for yards or opt to kick. Choices include punting the ball or attempting a field goal if within roughly 40 yards of the goalposts.
Get in on the Action
American Football is enjoyed not only in the United States, but across the globe. However, for those who want the thrills of watching the best players and teams go head-to-head, there’s no substitute for the NFL. This is a sport that’s part ballet and part turf war – and fans wouldn’t change that for the world.
