Rules of the game

All progress in American football is measured in yards. Each time a team gets the ball, their offense has four downs or chances to gain 10 yards. If the offensive team successfully gains 10 yards or more, they earn a first down and another four chances to move the ball 10 yards down the field, and so on. Teams attempt to move the ball downfield by either running the ball, or passing the ball.

Key rules on passing plays?

 

There may only be one forward pass per play. A receiver who has been forced off the pitch by a defender cannot catch the pass as he runs back onto the field. Receivers must have control of the football and get a foot down in the field of play to have completed a 'catch' Defensive players can only touch receivers and tight ends within 5 yards of the line of scrimmage.The quarterback must be behind the line of scrimmage to attempt a pass. Team mates are allowed to block opposing defenders to protect the quarterback as he passes downfield and to create running room for a receiver after he catches the ball.

Key rules on running plays?

 

A running back can complete as many lateral passes as he likes, although this is considered a risky act in the NFL Team mates are allowed to block opposing defenders to create running lanes for a ball carrier, but they cannot block defenders in the back or from behind When a quarterback runs beyond the line of scrimmage he can no longer throw a forward pass and must run the ball.

The Defence

The defence tries to prevent the offense not only from scoring, but also from gaining 10 yards needed to pick up a first down. If the offense reaches fourth down, it will usually kick the ball away, forcing the opponents to begin their drive further down the field. There are two quick ways for a defence to get the ball back from the opposing offense:

Fumble recovery: A fumble occurs when the an offensive player drops the ball on the ground. Any player can recover the ball by diving on it or he can pick it up and run with it. The team that recovers the fumble gets possession of the football. Interception: Catching a pass intended for an Offensive Player.

Fumble recoveries and interceptions can be run back into the opposing team's end zone for touchdowns.

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