Basic Game Play Overview

🔹 Game Format

• 5-on-5 format with a running clock.
• Each team gets four downs to reach midfield and three downs to score after crossing midfield.
• No fumbles—once the ball hits the ground, the play is dead.
• No blocking or tackling—only flag pulling is allowed.

🔹 Field Setup

• Field size: 25 yards wide by 70 yards long with two 10-yard end zones.
• No-Run Zones (4th-5th grade and above): Located 5 yards before midfield and 5 yards before the goal line, meaning all plays in these areas must be pass plays only.

🔹 Offensive Play

• The quarterback cannot run unless the ball has been handed off first.
• Handoffs, laterals, and pitches are allowed behind the line of scrimmage.
• The quarterback has 7 seconds to throw the ball before the play is dead.

🔹 Defensive Play

• Rushing the Passer (4th-5th grade and above):
  • Only players 7 yards behind the line of scrimmage can rush the QB.
  • Players may rush after a handoff or lateral.
• Flag Pulling:
  • Defenders must pull flags instead of tackling.
  • No grabbing jerseys or pushing players.

🔹 Scoring

• Touchdown: 6 points
• Extra Point:
  • 1 point from the 5-yard line (pass only).
  • 2 points from the 10-yard line (run or pass).
• Interceptions: Returnable for 6 points (2 points in overtime).

🔹 Game Clock & Timeouts

• Two 24-minute halves with a running clock.
• Each team gets one timeout per half.

🔹 Substitutions & Rotations

• Substitutions are allowed on any dead ball.
• Coaches need to rotate players and ensure equal playtime. 

🔹 Sportsmanship & Penalties

• No flag guarding, stiff arms, or charging.
• No screen blocking or holding.
• Coaches must keep sidelines clear and set a good example for players.
• No yelling, foul language, or negative comments toward referees or staff from coaches or parents. 
  

Key Rule Highlights & Differences Between Divisions

🔹 Kindergarten - 1st Grade & 2nd - 3rd Grade Divisions

• No-Run Zones are eliminated—teams can run anywhere.
• Pass rush is only allowed after a legal handoff. Defense will need to be lined up 5 yards behind the line of scrimmage
• Coaches can assist on the field but must move off before the snap.

🔹 4th-5th Grade and above (Coed Youth)

• Standard No-Run Zones apply (5 yards before midfield and the goal line).
• Quarterbacks cannot run with the ball unless handed off first.
• 7-second pass clock applies before a sack is automatic.
• Rushing the passer is allowed, but rushers must start 7 yards behind the line of scrimmage.
• Blocking or screening is prohibited—offensive players cannot impede defenders.
• All players are eligible receivers, including the quarterback after a lateral or handoff.

General Game Reminders

✔ Overtime Rules: Overtime is only applied during playoffs and championships. Teams will alternate attempts from the 5 or 10-yard line. No overtime during season games. Season games will result in a tie
✔ Equipment Check: Players must wear mouthguards & official NFL FLAG belts.
✔ Sportsmanship: No excessive celebrations, taunting, or flag guarding.
✔ Clock Management: Running clock with one timeout per half.

Resources
Flag Football Drills
Flag Football Plays & Formations
Flag Football Playbook
Flag Football Rule Book and Terms

If you have any questions, feel free to reach out. Looking forward to a great season!