NFL Flag Policies and Rule FAQ’s:
-
NFL issued flags only, no outside flags. Jersey must be worn & tucked into shorts. No pockets or jewelry.
-
Ball size: D1-mini(red), D2 peewee(blue), D3 Junior(brown)
-
6v6 in all divisions unless agreed upon the day prior by both coaches. If one team only has 5 players, play 5v5
-
Each team gets two timeouts per game - use them at any point in the game
-
Defensive coaches must be off the field when the ball is snapped.
-
Pitches, laterals, and backward passes are allowed, but only behind the line of scrimmage.
-
Simplified penalty structure: False start/offside/early blitz 5 yards repeat down. All others: 5 yards and LOD or automatic-first.
-
Forward passes must cross LOS. Exception: when blitzed, QB can throw anywhere(to encourage throwing rather than running). QB may also run directly when blitzed - QB may not cross LOS before the rusher does.
-
No-run zones(all divisions): no rushing, player taking the snap must throw(no handoffs, laterals).
-
Rushing: D1 no rushing. D2 & D3 - One rusher may identify by raising their hand and starting from 7 yards. D2 one rush per set of downs. D3 unlimited rushes except pass-only situations. Rushing allowed on all 2-pt attempts(D2 & D3). All defensive players eligible to cross LOS upon any exchange(all divisions).
-
A player raising their hand does not have to rush. No "fake" rushing or delayed rushing is allowed - both of these are a defensive foul for illegal blitz - 5 yd, automatic 1st down. If a blitzer "jumps" before the snap, they may terminate the rush and drop into coverage and not incur a foul. If a rusher "jumps" or leaves early and continues their rush, that is a foul for defensive offside - 5yd replay down.
-
No blitzing if ahead by 21 points. Maximum point differential for standings is 28
-
For championship night, teams will be seeded according to record to determine matchups. Tie breakers: H2H, points allowed, point differential. 1v2, 3v4, 5v6, 7v8.
-
Any gameplay rules not spelled out or modified here, we default to NFL flag rules.
-
Coaches and players only on the sidelines. Parents and spectators may only watch from the endzone areas. Noisemakers such as airhorns, whistles, cowbells...etc are prohibited.
-
Coaches and parents will refrain from any altercations with the refs and other teams. This is rec football and we need to set a good example for the kids.
For a link to the full rule book, click here