5 Golden Rules of American Football

Learn the basics. Understand the run. Study the pass.

Rule 1

Scoring: Touchdown = 6 points
Field Goal = 3 points
Point After Touchdown = 1 point
Two-Point Conversion = 2 points
Safety = 2 points

Rule 2

The attacking team (offense) scores a touchdown by getting the ball into the end zone (the area beyond the goaline).

Rule 3

The offense has four attempts, called downs, to move the ball a total of 10 yards. If successful they earn a fresh set of downs. If not, the other team gets the ball.

Rule 4

The ball is either advanced by either the quarterback throwing to a receiver or a running back carrying the ball.

Rule 5

The play ends when the ball carrier is tackled or an unsuccessful pass attempt hits the ground.