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Football dominates the airwaves on Sunday afternoons If you can't tell the difference between a first down, fourth down, or touch down, this page can help. Read on the learn how to understand football.
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Football dominates the airwaves on Sunday afternoons If you can't tell the difference between a first down, fourth down, or touch down, this page can help. Read on the learn how to understand football.
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Introduction
- Whether you need a cram course before attending an NFL game with a date, or you're hosting a crowd for a Super Bowl party, a bit of background will help you understand the game of American football.
eHow: Football Facts : About NFL Touchdown Rules
High school football coach Lawal S. McCray from Florida explains touchdowns. He is filmed outside sitting beside a football field giving it the right atmosphere for his talk covering touchdowns, rules, history, referees and coaches. This easy to listen to 1 and a half minute video is in HD.
Step 1: Football Basics
- The basics of the game are not complicated.
- The game is played on a 120 yard field. The area of play is separted into 2 ten yard end zones, and a 100 yard field. All progress is noted in yards.
- The game is divided in four quarters.
- 11 players are on the field at a time for each team. Players specialize in either offense or defense, and each position on the team has a different name and assigned role.
- Teams earn points by scoring touchdowns (6 points), field goals (3 points), safeties (2 points), and extra points or 2-point conversions.
- Penalties can cost teams yardage.
- An offensive team can lose the ball by turnovers such as interceptions and fumbles.
- The team has 4 chances to move the ball 10 yards. Each chance is called a down. When the move the ball at least ten yards, they are said to have made a first down, no matter which try it was.
Step 2: Football Terminology
- Football has a language all its own. It can be helpful to have a glossary to refer to, in case you hear an unfamiliar term. Here are a few that may be helpful:
- Football Plays and Drills: Football Glossary
- First Base Sports: Football Glossary
- RotoExperts: Football Glossary
