American Football 101: How the Game Works

American football can look confusing to newcomers, but the core ideas are simple. Two teams try to move the ball down the field and score in the opponent's end zone.

The goal

Score more points than the other team. The main ways to score are:

• Touchdown: 6 points, by carrying or catching the ball in the end zone.
• Extra point: 1 point by kicking after a touchdown (or 2 for a conversion play).
• Field goal: 3 points by kicking through the uprights.
• Safety: 2 points for tackling an opponent in their own end zone.

Downs

The team with the ball (the offence) has four attempts, called downs, to advance 10 yards. If they make it, they get a fresh set of four downs. If not, the other team gets the ball. Usually, on fourth down, a team punts or tries a field goal.

The main positions

• Quarterback: leads the offence and throws or hands off the ball.
• Running back: carries the ball.
• Receivers: catch passes.
• Offensive line: blocks defenders.
• Defence: tries to stop the offence by tackling and intercepting.

Watching tip

Follow the quarterback for a few games and you'll quickly pick up the rhythm.