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I enjoy professional football but have seldom understood all of its rules, regulations and penalties. The rules of the game can differ from play to play and can often be complex in nature, so having a basic understanding of this sport can make for a more enjoyable game whether you’re at the stadium or your local pub.
The Field
Knowing your football field is the first step to understanding this sport. The length of the field is 120 yards long and its width is 53 ½ yards. The goals are 100 yards apart with 10 additional yards at the end of each zone. The zone is where the goal posts are and kicking the ball through the goal posts is a sure way to score points and depending on the play even win the game. Every five yards the field is divided by yard lines and the 50 yard line is directly in the middle. Before each play both teams are provided enough space to line up on both sides of the football. To guarantee this, the football is always placed on what is known as hash marks prior to each play.
Football Format
There are four quarters in a football game and each quarter has a measurement of time. Both teams contend with each other to score the most points within the given time frame. For example, when a team member has possession of the football he can pick up yards getting him closer to the end zone as long as he doesn’t run out of bounds. If he makes it to the end zone without running out of bounds or being tackled he scores points for his team. Once a player is tackled or out of bounds the whistle is blown, the clock stops and it’s onto the next play.
Penalties
There are several penalties that govern a game and can cause for a loss of yardage. Here is just a couple you should know about:
False Start: If a football player moves right before the snap it will cost his team five yards.
Pass Interference: When a defender prevents his opponent from catching the ball after it’s in the air.
