Rules of the Game
Simplified for Parents & Players
Flag football is booming because it's fast, inclusive, and fun. Anyone can play—no specific build or prior experience needed.
📏 Field Setup
Size: 25 yards wide x 53 yards long.
No Run Zones: Located 5 yards before each end zone and midfield. In these zones, you must pass the ball (no handoffs allowed).
🏈 The Basics
⏱️ Game Format
5-on-5. Two halves (usually 12 mins each).
Clock only stops for halftime, timeouts, or injuries.
🚫 Non-Contact
Absolutely no tackling, diving, blocking, or screening.
Defense stops a play by pulling the flag.
🛑 Dead Ball
Play stops immediately if: Flag is pulled, player steps out of bounds, ball hits the ground (fumble), or flag falls off.
🏃♂️ Ball Handling
QBs cannot run (unless handed off first). No laterals or pitches. All passes must go forward.
🏆 Scoring Points
- Touchdown: 6 Points
- Safety: 2 Points
- Conversion (5 yds): 1 Point
- Conversion (10 yds): 2 Points
⚔️ Offense vs. Defense
Offense Tips
- 7-Second Clock: The QB has 7 seconds to throw the ball.
- Receiving: EVERYONE is eligible to catch a pass (including the QB if they hand it off first).
- No Jumping: You cannot jump or dive to avoid a flag pull.
Defense Tips
- The Rush: You can rush the QB, but you must start 7 yards back from the line of scrimmage.
- Hand-offs: Once the ball is handed off, anyone can rush immediately.
- Clean Play: Go for the flag, not the body!