NFL Football Rules Quiz

NFL Football Rules Quiz Questions

• What is the distance a team must advance the ball to maintain possession on a down?
• How many downs does a team have to advance the ball 10 yards?
• What is the penalty for illegal contact during a play?
• What is the name for a play where a team loses possession of the ball because of a turnover?
• Explain the rules for a forward pass in the NFL.
• How many players can a team have on the field at once?
• What is the basic procedure and rules for a field goal attempt?
• What is the penalty for holding the ball in a scrum?
• How many points does a touchdown score?
• Explain the concept of a safety and points.

Study Notes: NFL Football Rules

• Field and Lines of Play:

  • The field is 120 yards long between the end zones.
  • The end zones are 10 yards deep.
  • The total length of the field is 100 yards, from the front of one end zone to the front of the other.
  • The width of the field is 53 1/3 yards.
  • End lines run the width of the field from one end to the other.
  • The sidelines run the length of the field.
  • The hash marks denote specific areas of the field.

• Down and Distance:

  • Teams have four downs to advance the ball 10 yards.
  • If they succeed, they maintain possession and start a new sequence of downs.
  • If they fail, the other team takes possession of the ball.

• Forward Pass:

  • A forward pass is allowed in any direction to move forward the ball.
  • A player can only throw the ball with their hands or arms, not their feet or legs.

• Turnovers:

  • In the event of a fumble, an incomplete pass, or an interception, possession of the ball changes. Turns happen when the player with possession loses possession.
  • A lost fumble or interception causes the opposite team to gain control of the ball at a specific point on the field.

• Penalties:

  • Penalties are assessed for infractions of the rules.
  • Common penalties include holding, illegal contact, and pass interference.
  • Penalties include penalties that move the ball backward.

• Starting Plays:

  • Plays will start with the ball on the 25 yard line, and the game will begin with a snap of the football by the offensive team to the quarterback.

• Scoring:

  • Touchdown - 6 points.
  • Extra Point Kick - 1 point (or 2 points if run).
  • Field Goal - 3 points.
  • Safety - 2 points (if defense tackles the offensive player in the endzone).

• Teams on Field:

  • There are 11 players from the offensive and defensive team on the field at a time.
  • Defensive players can change throughout the game, when a player is injured, or they need a break.

• Field Goal Attempts:

  • A field goal is attempted to obtain 3 points by kicking the ball through the goal post from a 20-yard line from the endzone.
  • Kicking occurs on a specific spot, where players place the ball based on the current situation of the game, and is given after each touchdown.

• Personal Fouls:

  • Fouls will result in penalties and additional penalties if compounded.

• Scrum Rules (Not in the Original NFL; Refers to Rugby):

  • For scrum play in a similar sport, this action involves players engaging in a group of players in a contested area.
  • Rules vary significantly by sport.

Test your knowledge of NFL football rules with this comprehensive quiz. Covering everything from game procedures to specific penalties, this quiz is designed for both new and seasoned fans. See how well you understand the rules that govern America's favorite pastime.