Flag Football Rules Overview

Study Notes

Field and Scoring Rules

Field dimensions: 100 yards long with 10-yard end zones.
First down locations: Achieved at the 20-yard line, 40-yard line, and opposing end zone.
Scoring: Extra points are awarded after a touchdown; pass from 5 yards earns 1 point, pass or run from 8 yards earns 2 points.

Player Equipment and Uniforms

Flags: Two flags worn outside the jersey, which must be tucked in. Flags cannot match the color of the shorts.
Allowed gear: Gloves, soft secured helmets, wrist playbooks, sunglasses, and long sleeves matching the jersey color.
Prohibited items: Hoods, pockets, belts, towels, and hand warmers are not allowed.

Game Structure

Halves: Two halves lasting 20 minutes each with a running clock. The clock stops in the final minute of each half.
Play clock: Offense has 25 seconds to snap the ball.

Offensive Rules

Formation: A minimum of three players must be on the line of scrimmage.
Snap: The ball must be snapped between the legs of the quarterback.
Turnovers: Fumbles result in the ball being dead at the spot of the fumble.
Passing and Running: No contact or blocking is allowed. The quarterback has 7 seconds to pass, hand off, throw, or run the ball.
Run Zone: No runs allowed 5 yards from a first down or goal line; these plays must be passing plays.
Motion rules: Offensive players can move and must reset for 1 second before the snap. Only one running back/tailback is allowed to move parallel to the line of scrimmage.

Defensive Rules

Rushing: Defense can rush from 7 yards behind the line of scrimmage but must do so immediately.
Flag guarding: This results in a 10-yard penalty.
Screen mechanics: Similar to basketball; feet must be established and arms must not extend.

Punting Rules

4th down: Team must inform the official if they intend to punt.
Punt formation: Four players on the line of scrimmage; they cannot run downfield until the ball is kicked.
Return team: Cannot rush but can raise their arms during the punt.
Punt timing: 5 seconds are allowed to execute the punt; failure results in a turnover.
Punting catch: The return team may catch or retrieve the ball if it’s rolling.

Additional Rules

Passing restrictions: Quarterback cannot throw to an area without a receiver but may spike the ball.
End zone scoring: Diving into the end zone to score is prohibited; diving is only allowed to catch the ball.

Description

Test your knowledge of flag football rules with this quiz! It covers everything from field dimensions to player attire and game structure. Make sure you're familiar with the unique regulations that govern this exciting sport.