Interactive Explainer
FootballRead the Gamefrom the Bench
Pick a formation, tap any player to learn their role, and finally understand what the offense is trying to do — and how the defense stops it.
Sport DNA
Field
100 yds × 53⅓ yds
120 yds including end zones
Ball Size
Pee Wee · Junior · Youth · Official
Ages 6–9 / 10–12 / 12–14 / 14+
End Zones
10 yds deep each end
Goal posts at back of end zone
Players per Side
11
Unlimited substitutions
Game Length
4 × 15 min (NFL)
4 × 10–12 min (youth)
Field Goal Distance
Goal posts: 18.5 ft wide
Crossbar: 10 ft high
Countries Playing
70+ IFAF members
Dominant in USA & Canada
Founded
1869 · New Jersey
Rutgers vs. Princeton
I-Formation (Offense)
Named for the straight line the QB, Fullback, and Running Back form behind center — it literally looks like the letter "I." The FB lines up directly in front of the RB and acts as the lead blocker on running plays, clearing the hole before the RB hits it. Wide receivers on both sides and a slot receiver keep the defense honest and create passing options.
Tap any player to learn their role
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Before the Start
Essential Gear
See all 11 items
Football Cleats
Molded-cleat low-cuts or mid-cuts provide traction on grass fields. Look for ankle support in the upper. Detachable cleats are great for turf and grass versatility.
Est. $35 – $100
Football Helmet
NOCSAE-certified helmet with a proper fit is the most important piece of equipment. Must fit snugly — no more than two fingers between eyebrow and facemask bottom.
Est. $80 – $300
Shoulder Pads
Sized by chest measurement, not age. Should cover the shoulder point and AC joint fully. Skill position pads run smaller for mobility; lineman pads run larger.
Est. $50 – $150
Mouthguard
Required for all tackle and most flag leagues. A properly fitted boil-and-bite guard protects teeth and reduces concussion risk. Replace annually.
Est. $5 – $20
Full gear guide
7 must-haves · 11 items total · Est. $150 – $500 (tackle) · $30 – $80 (flag)
Parent's Cheat Sheet
What just happened?
Official Wording
The offensive team has four downs (attempts) to advance the ball 10 yards. If successful, they earn a new set of four downs. If unsuccessful after four downs, possession transfers to the opposing team.
Parent Translation
Think of it as four chances to move 10 yards. Move 10 yards — you get four more chances. Fail to move 10 yards in four tries — the other team gets the ball. That's why you hear '3rd and 7' — it's 3rd down (third try) and they still need 7 yards to get a new set of downs. On 4th down, teams usually punt rather than risk giving the ball over close to their own end zone.
