K-1 GAME RULES

OVERVIEW

1. At the start of each game, captains from both teams shall meet at midfield for the coin toss to determine who shall start with the ball.

2. The winner of the coin toss has the choice of offense or defense.

3. The offensive team takes possession of the ball at its 3-yard line and has four

(4)) plays to cross midfield. Once a team crosses midfield, they have four

(4) plays to score a touchdown.

4. If the offense fails to score, the ball changes possession and the new offensive

team starts its drive on its own 3-yard line.

5. All possession changes, except interceptions, start on the offense’s 3-yard line.

6.  Games will be 5x5 Format

7.  Shirts MUST be tucked in, and flags must be worn over the shirts. Any ball

carrier with their shirt over their flags will called down when a defender

attempts to pull the flag.

8. The same player cannot run the ball on consecutive plays. This does not apply to

pass receiving. A player who just ran the ball is eligible to catch a pass on the next play.

9. At the end of the game, teams will lineup to shake hands.

10. Fields MUST be cleared immediately after the game is done.

TIMING

1. All teams will have the field for approximately a one hour time slot.

2. There will be a running clock starting at 55 minutes.

3. The first 15 Minutes will be used for a quick warm-up/Practice followed by a 40

Minute Game.  (Week one will be a 30 minute Practice and Optional Scrimmage)

4. The coin toss by captains will be done promptly 15 minutes past the hour There are

NO Timeouts. Play will only be stopped for injury.

5. Each time the ball is spotted, a team has 35 seconds to snap the ball. Teams will

receive one warning before the delay-of-game penalty is enforced. We

want these games to move at quicker pace to maximize reps/plays for the kids.

(the younger the kids, the more lenient we will be with this rule!)

OFFENSE

1. The offensive team takes possession of the ball at its 3-yard line and has four

(4)) plays to cross midfield. Once a team crosses midfield, they have

four (4) plays to score a touchdown.

2. If the offense fails to score, the ball changes possession and the new offensive

team starts its drive on its own 3-yard line.

3. All possession changes, except interceptions, start on the offense’s 3-yard line.

4. Interceptions may be returned. Ball will be spotted where the defender flag is

pulled.

5.  There are NO safeties. If a player loses yards inside the 3 yard line or get

his flag pulled in the end zone, the ball will come out to the 3 yard line.

6. If  the offense scores a touchdown, they may elect to go for one point or two point

conversion. One point conversion is from the 3 yard line, two point conversion is from the 6 yard line.

7.  Offense has the option to run or pass. All Pitches, laterals, or handoffs must

take place behind the Line of Scrimmage

8. QB

WILL START WITH BALL IN HAND. NO SNAPPING NEEDED. QUARTERBACK MUST HAND THE

BALL OFF OR PASS. 

9. No

diving to gain yardage or jumping (Hurdling Defenders) —

10. No

Fumbles. Once the ball hits the ground, play is dead.

BALL

CARRIERS

1. The

ball will be spotted where the flag is pulled (Therefore, no reaching the ball

out to gain additional yardage, especially over the GOAL LINE)

2. The

quarterback cannot directly run with the ball. The quarterback is the offensive

player who receives the snap.

3. Only

direct handoffs behind the line of scrimmage are permitted. Handoffs may be in

front, behind or to the side of the offensive player but must be behind

the line of scrimmage. The offense may use multiple handoffs. No diving to gain

yards or jumping (hurdling)

4. Any

player who receives a handoff can throw the ball from behind the line of

scrimmage.

5. Once

the ball has been handed off in front, behind or to the side of the

quarterback, all defensive players are eligible to rush

6. The

ball carrier shall not run through a defense player but must attempt to evade

the defensive player.

7. No

blocking or “screening” is allowed at any time.

8.  Offensive players without the ball must stop

their motion once the ball has crossed the line of scrimmage. No running with

the ball-carrier.

9.

 Flag Guarding-No ball carrier shall intentionally block an opponent or

defending the player from grabbing the flag. This includes stiff arming,

slapping the defender hands away or intentionally covering flags with shirt.

Ball will be spotted at spot of foul.

10.

Laterals Behind the LOS are Allowed. Laterals are NOT allowed past the LOS

RECIEVING

1. All

players are eligible to receive passes

2. Only

one player is allowed in motion at a time. All motion must be parallel to the

line of scrimmage and no motion is permitted towards the line of

scrimmage.

3. A

player must have a least one foot inbounds when making a reception.

4. In

the case of simultaneous possession by both an offensive and defensive player,

possession is awarded to the offense.

5.

Interceptions change the possession of the ball at the point of interception.

Interceptions are the only changes of possession that do not start on

the 3-yard line.

6.

Interceptions are returnable but not on conversions after touchdowns.

PASSING

1. All

passes must be from behind the line of scrimmage, thrown forward and received

beyond the line scrimmage.

2.

Shovel passes are allowed but must be received beyond the line of scrimmage.

3. The

quarterback has a seven-second “pass clock.” If a pass is not thrown within the

seven seconds, the play is dead, the down is consumed and the ball is returned

to the line of scrimmage. Once the ball is handed off, the 7-second rule is no

longer in effect. a. If the QB is standing in the end zone at the end of the

7-second clock, the ball is returned to the line of scrimmage (LOS). NO SAFETIES

4.

There is no intentional grounding

5. All

passes that do not cross the line of scrimmage, whether received or not, are

illegal forward passes, unless touched by a defender.

FORMATIONS

1.

Offenses must have a minimum of one player on the line of scrimmage (the

center) and up to four players on the line of scrimmage. The quarterback

must be off the line of scrimmage.

2. Only

one player is allowed in motion at a time. All motion must be parallel to the

line of scrimmage and no motion is permitted towards the LOS

3.

Formation shifts are allowed but all players must be set for one full second.

BLOCKING

Flag Football is a NON-Contact

Sport. No

blocking is allowed.

To keep the game safe and

inclusive, there’s absolutely no contact allowed in flag football, including

tackling, diving, blocking, and screening.

RUSHING

THE PASS AND DEFENSE

1. In

K-1 division there is no rushing the Quarterback.  All Defense Players

must line a minimum of 4 Yards off the ball and react to the ball once it is

handed off. A special marker will designate where defenders can line up. 

All Defenders can attack and react to the ball once it is handed off by the

Quarterback. They can not blitz or attack until the ball is handed off. 

 If the quarterback drops back to pass, all defenders are going to play

the pass.

BALL

INSIDE THE 4 YARD LINE

If the

ball is spotted at the or inside the 4 yard line, the defense may have its

heals on the Goal Line to Defend. The Referee Will NOT drop marker for Defense

to be four yards off the ball. 

SCORING

Touchdown

6 Points

Extra

Point 1 Point (played from the 3 yard line)

2

Points (played from the 6 yard line

No

Safeties

PENALTIES

(The ball will NEVER be moved back beyond the 3 yard line)

Offense

(Defense can decline any penalty if they wish)

1.

Screening, Blocking, or Running with the Ball (-5 and Loss of Down)

2.

Delay of Game (-5 yards and Replay the Down).  If the clock is under 5:00

minutes, the penalty will result in the loss of down. (remember you will have

one warning per game)  (The younger the kids, the more lenient we will be)

3. Flag

Guarding-(Holding onto to belt, stiff arms, charging, shirt over flags) Play

will be blown dead at spot of foul and ball be placed at the spot of the foul

(No yards will be lost)

4.

Offensive Pass Interference (Pushing off/away on defender) -5 yards from LOS

and Loss of Down

5.

Illegal Motion/shifts, False Starts, Illegal Formation, Play will be blown dead

and replay the down. If this becomes excessive, the referee will begin

penalizing the team -5 yards from LOS and Replay the Down

6.

Impeding the Rusher (-5 Yards and Loss of Down)

DEFENSE(

OFFENSE CAN DECLINE ANY PENALTY IF THEY WISH)

1.

Defensive Pass Interference (5 yards plus replay the down)

2.

Illegal Rushing (5 yards and Replay the Down)

3.

Holding (Grabbing an offensive player jersey or shorts while running a route)

(5 yards and replay the down)

4.

Offsides (Defensive Player lines or moves the LOS of the offense) (5 yards and

replay the down)

6.

Pushing the player out of bounds (5 yards to end of run).  (Note: If the hold or push out of

bounds is done on 4th down and deemed intentional to prevent 1st down or

touchdown, offense will get another down from the spot of foul +5 yards)

7.

Defensive Coaches on Field During Offensive Play (5 yards and Replay the Down)

General

Rules:

1.Personal

Foul/Unsportsmanlike Conduct (This includes Coaches) +10 or -10 Yards AND

AUTOMATIC FIRST DOWN

2. If

the field monitor or game officials’ witnesses any acts of intentional

tackling, elbowing, cheap shots, blocking or any unsportsmanlike act, the game

will be stopped and the player will be ejected from the game. The decision is

made at the game officials’ discretion. No appeals will be

considered.

INTENTIONAL PHYSICAL PLAY WILL NOT BE PERMITTED! Offensive or confrontational

language is NOT allowed. Officials have the right to determine offensive

language. If offensive or confrontational language occurs, the officials’ will

penalize for unsportsman like conduct and determine if an ejection is

warranted. Players or Coaches may not physically or verbally abuse any

opponent, coach or game official.

DEADBALLS SCENARIOS

 Play

is ruled “dead” when:

1. The

ball hits the ground.

2. The

ball carrier’s flag is pulled.

3. The

ball carrier steps out of bounds.

4. A

touchdown or extra point is scored.

5. The

ball carrier’s knee hits the ground

6. The

ball carrier’s flag falls off

7. The

receiver catches the ball while in possession of one or no flags

8.

Inadvertent whistle.

MISCELLANEOUS

RULES AND SITUATIONS

1. If

flags fall off without being pulled, runner is down where the flag came off

2. Ball

Carrier should stay on his feet at all times (No Diving or Jumping)

3. No

Fumbles! Once the ball hits the ground it is dead

4.

Games cannot end on a defensive penalty, unless the offense declines

5. Any

intentional penalties at end of the game on offense or defense to

attempt

to win the game or take time off the clock will NOT be tolerated.

COACHES

1. A

maximum of Three Coaches are allowed on the field to direct players 

according to need and division between plays.

2.

Offensive coaches can be the only coaches on the field behind the huddle during

a play (Must be minimum of five yards behind the

Quarterback

at all times!)

3

Defensive Coaches can be on the sideline or back of the end-zone during the

play (Failure to do this will result in -5 yard penalty and

replaying

the down).

4.

Please keep subs behind the ball at all all times. Defensive Substitutions

should be on the endzones or sidelines at all times for

safety

reasons.

 *****WE RESERVE THE RIGHT TO CHANGE ANY OF THESE RULES AT ANY TIME FOR

THE BETTERMENT OF THE LEAGUE, HAVE FUN! *****

2nd Grade rules

2^nd grade rules:

OVERVIEW

1. At the start of each game, captains from both teams shall meet at midfield for the coin toss to determine who shall start with the ball.

2. The winner of the coin toss has the choice of offense or defense.

3. The offensive team takes possession of the ball at its 3-yard line and has four (4)) plays to cross

midfield. Once a team crosses midfield, they have four (4) plays to score a touchdown.

4. If the offense fails to score, the ball changes possession and the new offensive team starts its

drive on its own 3-yard line.

5. All possession changes, except interceptions, start on the offense’s 3-yard line.

6. Games will be 5x5 Format

7. Shirts MUST be tucked in, and flags must be worn over the shirts. Any ball carrier with their shirt

over their flags will called down when a defender attempts to pull the flag.

8. The same player cannot run the ball on consecutive plays. This does not apply to pass receiving.

A player who just ran the ball is eligible to catch a pass on the next play.

9. At the end of the game, teams will lineup to shake hands.

10. Fields MUST be cleared immediately after the game is done.

TIMING

1. All teams will have the field for approximately a one hour time slot.

2. There will be a running clock starting at 55 minutes.

3. The first 10 Minutes will be used for a quick warm-up/Practice followed

by a 45 Minute Game. (Week one will be a 30 minute Practice and Optional Scrimmage)

4. The coin toss by captains will be done promptly 10 minutes past the

hour There are NO Timeouts. Play will only be stopped for injury.

5. NO TIMEOUTS (THE CLOCK WILL NEVER STOP)

6. After referees blow whistle signaling ready, a team has 35 seconds to snap the ball. Teams will receive one warning before the delay- of game penalty is enforced. We want these games to move at quicker pace to maximize reps/plays for the kids.

7. ANY DELAY OF GAME PENALTY UNDER 5:00 Left in game will result in -5 Yards and LOSS OF

DOWN NO WARNINGS WILL BE GIVEN UNDER THE 5:00!!!!!

Offense

1. The offensive team takes possession of the ball at its 3-yard line and has four (4)) plays to cross midfield. Once a team crosses midfield, they have four (4) plays to score a touchdown.

2. If the offense fails to score, the ball changes possession and the new offensive team starts its

drive on its own 3-yard line.

3. All possession changes, except interceptions, start on the offense’s 3-yard line.

4. Interceptions may be returned. Ball will be spotted where the defender flag is pulled.

5. There are NO safeties. If a player loses yards inside the 3 yard line or get his flag pulled in the end

zone, the ball will come out to the 3 yard line.

6. If the offense scores a touchdown, they may elect to go for one point or two point conversion.

One point conversion is from the 3 yard line, two point conversion is from the 6 yard line.

7. Offense has the option to run or pass. All Pitches, laterals, or handoffs must take place behind

the Line of Scrimmage

8. The ball must be snapped (between the legs or side snap are accepted) Any snap that hits the ground is loss of down.

9. No diving to gain yardage or jumping (Hurdling Defenders) ——

10. No Fumbles. Once the ball hits the ground, play is dead.

Ball Carriers

1. The ball will be spotted where the flag is pulled (Therefore, no reaching the ball out to gain

additional yardage, especially over the GOAL LINE)

2. The quarterback cannot directly run with the ball. The quarterback is the offensive player who

receives the snap.

3. Only direct handoffs behind the line of scrimmage are permitted. Handoffs may be in front,

behind or to the side of the offensive player but must be behind the line of scrimmage. The offense

may use multiple handoffs. No diving to gain yards or jumping (hurdling)

4. Any player who receives a handoff can throw the ball from behind the line of scrimmage.

5. Once the ball has been handed off in front, behind or to the side of the quarterback, all defensive

players are eligible to rush

6. The ball carrier shall not run through a defense player but must attempt to evade a blocker

7. No blocking or “screening” is allowed at any time.

8. Offensive players without the ball must stop their motion once the ball has crossed the line of scrimmage. No running with the ball-carrier.

9. Flag Guarding-No ball carrier shall intentionally block an opponent or defending the player from grabbing the flag. This includes stiff arming, slapping the defender hands away or intentionally covering flags with shirt. Ball will be spotted at spot of foul.

10. Laterals Behind the LOS are Allowed. Laterals are NOT allowed past the LOS

RECIEVING

1. All players are eligible to receive passes

2. Only one player is allowed in motion at a time. All motion must be parallel to the line of scrimmage and no motion is permitted towards the line of scrimmage.

3. A player must have a least one foot inbounds when making a reception.

4. In the case of simultaneous possession by both an offensive and defensive player, possession is awarded to the offense.

5. Interceptions change the possession of the ball at the point of interception. Interceptions are the only changes of possession that do not start on the 3-yard line.

6. Interceptions are returnable but not on conversions after touchdowns.

PASSING

1. All passes must be from behind the line of scrimmage.

2. Shovel passes are allowed but must be received beyond the line of scrimmage.

3. The quarterback has a seven (7) second “pass clock.” If a pass is not thrown within the seven seconds, play is dead, the down is consumed and the ball is returned to the line of scrimmage. If the QB is standing in the end zone at the end of the 7 second clock, the ball is returned to the line of scrimmage (LOS).

The referee will start at 7 and countdown to 1. The Whistle will blow at 0 ending the play. blowing the play dead.

4. There is no intentional grounding

5. All passes that do not cross the line of scrimmage, whether received or not, are illegal forward  passes, unless touched by a defender.

FORMATIONS

1. Offenses must have a minimum of one player on the line of scrimmage (the center) and up to four players on the line of scrimmage. The quarterback must be off the line of scrimmage.

2. Ball can be snapped through the legs or a side snap. Either way the ball must be on the ground to start. A snap that hits the ground, is a loss of down, (Each Team will get one Mulligan, unless there is less than 10 minutes on the clock or week 7) but the ball will be returned to the original LOS.

3. Only one player is allowed in motion at a time. All motion must be parallel to the line of scrimmage and no motion is permitted towards the LOS

4. Formation shifts are allowed but all players must be set for one full second.

BLOCKING

Flag Football is a NON-Contact Sport. No blocking is allowed. To keep the game safe and inclusive, there’s absolutely no contact allowed in flag football, including tackling, diving, blocking and screening.

No Run Zones

NO RUN ZONES= NO RUN NO RUSH

No run zone: The rules for flag football include no run zones that are located three yards before the goal line and 3 yards before the 1st down marker, meaning all plays in these areas must be pass plays and the defense may rush on the no run zone at the first down marker, however it is a No Run, No Rush at the goalline. 

Rushing The Passer 

1. All players who rush the passer must be a minimum of seven yards from the line of scrimmage when the ball is snapped. This Player is designated with a wrist band. Players not rushing the quarterback can defend on the line of scrimmage.

DEFENSE

1. This rush line will be designated by the ref with a marker (The rusher can

come from any where on the field as long as he is behind the rush marker

to start the play)

2. All other team members may play man defense, zone defense, or a

combination of both. (NO BUMP AND RUN COVERAGE) Interceptions

may be returned. The ball is spotted where the defenders flag is pulled.

3. Once the ball is handed off, the seven-yard rule no longer is in effect

and all defenders may go behind the line of scrimmage.

4. A special marker, or the referee, will designate a rush line seven yards

from the line of scrimmage. Rusher with wristband should verify they are in

the correct position with the official on every play. All other Defense

Players must line a minimum of 4 Yards off the ball and react to the ball

once it is handed off. A special marker will designate where defenders can

line up.

2. A legal rush is:

   A) Any rush from a point 7-yards from the defensive line of scrimmage

for defensive player with wristband upon snap of football.

   B)  A rush from anywhere on the field for AFTER the ball has been

handed off by the quarterback.

3. A penalty may be called if:

   A) The rusher leaves the rush line before the snap illegal rush and continues the rush the QB. If a

designated rush leaves early, they may return to the rush line and then rush the QB. (5-yards

from the lOS and Replay the Down. OR Can Be Declined by offense.

    B) Any defensive player not lined up at 4 yards from the LOS indicated

by marker. -5 Yards and Replay the Down Or Declined

MERCY RULE: IF A Team is Up by 3 scores or More, The Defense Can

No Longer Rush.

4. Players rushing the quarterback may attempt to block a pass; however,

contact to the QB, unless ruled incidental by the official, would result in a

roughing the passer penalty.

5. The offense cannot impede the rusher in any way. The rusher has the

right to a clear path to the quarterback, regardless of where they line up

prior to the snap. If the “path or line” is occupied by a moving offensive

player, then it is the offense’s responsibility to avoid the rusher. Any

disruption to the rusher’s path and/or contact will result in an impeding the

rusher penalty. If the offensive player does not move after the snap, then it

is the rusher’s responsibility to go around the offensive player and to avoid

contact.

6. A sack occurs if the quarterback’s flags are pulled behind the line of

scrimmage. The ball will be spotted where possession of the ball is once

the flag is pulled.

SCORING

Touchdown 6 Points

Extra Point 1 Point (played from the 3 yard line)

2 Points (played from the 6 yard line

No Safeties

PENALTIES (The ball will NEVER be moved back beyond the 3 yard line)

Offense (Defense can decline any penalty if they wish)

1. Screening, Blocking, or Running with the Ball

-5 and Loss of Down

2. Delay of Game

-5 yards and Replay the Down

If the clock is under 5:00 minutes, the penalty will result in the loss of

down. (remember you will have one warning per game)

(The younger the kids, the more lenient we will be)

3. Flag Guarding-(Holding onto to belt, stiff arms, charging, shirt over flags)

Play will be blown dead at spot of foul and ball be placed at the spot of the

foul (No yards will be lost)

4. Offensive Pass Interference (Pushing off/away on defender)

-5 yards from LOS and Loss of Down

 5. Illegal Motion/shifts, False Starts, Illegal Formation,

Play will be blown dead and replay the down. If this becomes excessive,

the referee will begin penalizing the team -5 yards from LOS and Replay

the Down

6. Impeding the Rusher (making purposeful contact with Rusher in any

way)

-5 yards from LOS and loss of down

7. False Start (Player or players start before the ball is snapped)

-5 yards and Replay the Down (Minor movement will be accepted)

DEFENSE( OFFENSE CAN DECLINE ANY PENALTY IF THEY WISH)

1. Defensive Pass Interference

5 yards plus replay the down

2. Illegal Rushing 5 yards and Replay the Down

3. Holding (Grabbing an offensive player jersey or shorts while running a

route)

5 yards and replay the down

4. QB Roughing the Passer (A defender hits the arm while the Quarterback

is throwing)

5 yards and Automatic First Down. Stay off the Quarterback arm while

throwing as safety of the kids is the most important

6. Offsides (Defensive Player lines or moves the LOS of the offense)

5 yards and replay the down

6. Pushing the player out of bounds (Note: If the hold or push out of bounds is done on 4th down

and deemed intentional to prevent 1st down or touchdown, offense will get another down from the

spot of foul +5 yards)

7. Defensive Coaches on Field During Offensive Play

5 yards and Replay the Down

General Rules:

Personal Foul/Unsportsmanlike Conduct (This includes Coaches) +5 or -5

Yards AND AUTOMATIC FIRST DOWN

2 Unsportsmanlike Conducts in one game will result in immediate

REMOVAL from the game.

Personal Foul Definition: Illegal physical contact that endangers the safety

of another player

Unsportsmanlike Conduct-Examples include verbal abuse, taunting of an

opponent or a game official, an excessive celebration following a significant

play.

DEADBALLS SCENARIOS

 Play is ruled “dead” when:

1. The ball hits the ground.

2. The ball carrier’s flag is pulled.

3. The ball carrier steps out of bounds.

4. A touchdown or extra point is scored.

5. The ball carrier’s knee hits the ground

6. The ball carrier’s flag falls off

7. The receiver catches the ball while in possession of one or no flags

8. Inadvertent whistle.

MISCELLANEOUS RULES AND SITUATIONS

1. If flags fall off without being pulled, runner is down where the flag came

off

2. Ball Carrier should stay on his feet at all times (No Diving or Jumping)

3. No Fumbles! Once the ball hits the ground it is dead

4. Games cannot end on a defensive penalty, unless the offense declines

5. Any intentional penalties at end of the game on offense or defense to

attempt to win the game or take time off the clock will NOT be tolerated.

COACHES

1. A maximum of Three Coaches are allowed on the field to direct players

 according to need and division between plays.

2. Offensive coaches can be the only coaches on the field behind the

huddle during a play( Must be minimum of five yards behind the

Quarterback at all times!)

3 Defensive Coaches can be on the sideline or back of the end-zone

during the play (Failure to do this will result in -5 yard penalty and

replaying the down)

4. Please keep subs behind the ball at all all times. Defensive

Substitutions should be on the sidelines behind the ball at all times for

safety reasons.

*********WE RESERVE THE RIGHT TO CHANGE ANY OF THESE RULES

AT ANY TIME FOR THE BETTERMENT OF THE LEAGUE

HAVE FUN!

3rd-4th grade rules

3rd-4th grade rules:

OVERVIEW

1. At the start of each game, captains from both teams shall meet at midfield for the coin toss to determine who shall start with the ball.

2. The winner of the coin toss has the choice of offense or defense.

3. The offensive team takes possession of the ball at its 3-yard line and has four (4)) plays to cross

midfield. Once a team crosses midfield, they have four (4) plays to score a touchdown.

4. If the offense fails to score, the ball changes possession and the new offensive team starts its

drive on its own 3-yard line.

5. All possession changes, except interceptions, start on the offense’s 3-yard line.

6. Games will be 5x5 Format

7. Shirts MUST be tucked in, and flags must be worn over the shirts. Any ball carrier with their shirt

over their flags will called down when a defender attempts to pull the flag.

8. The same player cannot run the ball on consecutive plays. This does not apply to pass receiving. A player who just ran the ball is eligible to catch a pass on the next play.

9. At the end of the game, teams will lineup to shake hands.

10. Fields MUST be cleared immediately after the game is done.

TIMING

1. All teams will have the field for approximately a one hour time slot.

2. There will be a running clock starting at 55 minutes.

3. The first 10 Minutes will be used for a quick warm-up/Practice followed

by a 45 Minute Game. (Week one will be a 30 minute Practice and Optional Scrimmage)

4. The coin toss by captains will be done promptly 10 minutes past the

hour There are NO Timeouts. Play will only be stopped for injury.

5. NO TIMEOUTS (THE CLOCK WILL NEVER STOP)

6. After referees blow whistle signaling ready, a team has 35 seconds to snap the ball. Teams will receive one warning before the delay- of game penalty is enforced. We want these games to move at quicker pace to maximize reps/plays for the kids.

7. ANY DELAY OF GAME PENALTY UNDER 5:00 Left in game will result in -5 Yards and LOSS OF DOWN NO WARNINGS WILL BE GIVEN UNDER THE 5:00!!!!!

Offense

1. The offensive team takes possession of the ball at its 3-yard line and has four (4)) plays to cross midfield. Once a team crosses midfield, they have four (4) plays to score a touchdown.

2. If the offense fails to score, the ball changes possession and the new offensive team starts its

drive on its own 3-yard line.

3. All possession changes, except interceptions, start on the offense’s 3-yard line.

4. Interceptions may be returned. Ball will be spotted where the defender flag is pulled.

5. There are NO safeties. If a player loses yards inside the 3 yard line or get his flag pulled in the end zone, the ball will come out to the 3 yard line.

6. If the offense scores a touchdown, they may elect to go for one point or two point conversion.

One point conversion is from the 3 yard line, two point conversion is from the 6 yard line.

7. Offense has the option to run or pass. All Pitches, laterals, or handoffs must take place behind the Line of Scrimmage

8. The ball must be snapped (between the legs or side snap are accepted) Any snap that hits the ground is loss of down.

9. No diving to gain yardage or jumping (Hurdling Defenders) ——

10. No Fumbles. Once the ball hits the ground, play is dead.

Ball Carriers

1. The ball will be spotted where the flag is pulled (Therefore, no reaching the ball out to gain

additional yardage, especially over the GOAL LINE)

2. The quarterback cannot directly run with the ball. The quarterback is the offensive player who receives the snap.

3. Only direct handoffs behind the line of scrimmage are permitted. Handoffs may be in front, behind or to the side of the offensive player but must be behind the line of scrimmage. The offense may use multiple handoffs. No diving to gain yards or jumping (hurdling)

4. Any player who receives a handoff can throw the ball from behind the line of scrimmage.

5. Once the ball has been handed off in front, behind or to the side of the quarterback, all defensive players are eligible to rush

6. The ball carrier shall not run through a defense player but must attempt to evade a blocker

7. No blocking or “screening” is allowed at any time.

8. Offensive players without the ball must stop their motion once the ball has crossed the line of scrimmage. No running with the ball-carrier.

9. Flag Guarding-No ball carrier shall intentionally block an opponent or defending the player from grabbing the flag. This includes stiff arming, slapping the defender hands away or intentionally covering flags with shirt. Ball will be spotted at spot of foul.

10. Laterals Behind the LOS are Allowed. Laterals are NOT allowed past the LOS

RECIEVING

1. All players are eligible to receive passes

2. Only one player is allowed in motion at a time. All motion must be parallel to the line of scrimmage and no motion is permitted towards the line of scrimmage.

3. A player must have a least one foot inbounds when making a reception.

4. In the case of simultaneous possession by both an offensive and defensive player, possession is awarded to the offense.

5. Interceptions change the possession of the ball at the point of interception. Interceptions are the only changes of possession that do not start on the 3-yard line.

6. Interceptions are returnable but not on conversions after touchdowns.

PASSING

1. All passes must be from behind the line of scrimmage.

2. Shovel passes are allowed but must be received beyond the line of scrimmage.

3. The quarterback has a seven (7) second “pass clock.” If a pass is not thrown within the seven seconds, play is dead, the down is consumed and the ball is returned to the line of scrimmage. If  the QB is standing in the end zone at the end of the 7 second clock, the ball is returned to the line of scrimmage (LOS). The referee will start at 7 and countdown to 1. The Whistle will blow at 0 ending the play. blowing the play dead

4. There is no intentional grounding

5. All passes that do not cross the line of scrimmage, whether received or not, are illegal forward passes, unless touched by a defender.

FORMATIONS

1. Offenses must have a minimum of one player on the line of scrimmage (the center) and up to four players on the line of scrimmage. The quarterback must be off the line of scrimmage.

2. Ball can be snapped through the legs or a side snap. Either way the ball must be on the ground to start. A snap that hits the ground, is a loss of down.

3. Only one player is allowed in motion at a time. All motion must be parallel to the line of scrimmage and no motion is permitted towards the LOS

4. Formation shifts are allowed but all players must be set for one full second.

BLOCKING

Flag Football is a NON-Contact Sport. No blocking is allowed. To keep the game safe and inclusive, there’s absolutely no contact allowed in flag football, including tackling, diving, blocking and screening.

No Run Zones

No run zone: The rules for flag football include no run zones that are located three yards before the goal line and the 1^st down marker, meaning all plays in these areas must be pass plays and the defense may rush on the no run zone at the first down marker, however it is a No Run, No Rush at the goalline.

Rushing The Passer and Defense

1. All players who rush the passer must be a minimum of seven yards from the line of scrimmage when the ball is snapped. This Player is designated with a wrist band. Players not rushing the quarterback can defend on the line of scrimmage.

DEFENSE

1. This rush line will be designated by the ref with a marker (The rusher can come from any where on the field as long as he is behind the rush marker

to start the play)

2. All other team members may play man defense, zone defense, or a combination of both. (NO BUMP AND RUN COVERAGE) Interceptions

may be returned. The ball is spotted where the offense player flag is pulled.

3. Once the ball is handed off, the seven-yard rule no longer is in effect and all defenders may go behind the line of scrimmage.

4. A special marker, or the referee, will designate a rush line seven yards from the line of scrimmage. Rusher with wristband should verify they are in the correct position with the official on every play. All Players not rushing the quarterback can defend the line of scrimmage

5. A legal rush is:

  A) Any rush from a point 7-yards from the defensive line of scrimmage for defensive player with wristband upon snap of football.

  B) A rush from anywhere on the field for AFTER the ball has been handed off by the quarterback.

3. A penalty may be called if:

  A) The rusher leaves the rush line before the snap illegal rush and continues the rush the QB and crosses the LOS. If a designated rush leaves early, they may return to the rush line and then rush the QB. (5-yards) from the lOS and Replay the Down. OR Can Be Declined by offense.

  B) Any defensive player not lined up as a rusher and crosses the LOS prior to handoff or rushes the QB. -5 Yards and Replay the Down Or Declined

MERCY RULE: IF A Team is Up by 3 scores or More, The Defense Can No Longer Rush.

4. Players rushing the quarterback may attempt to block a pass; however, contact to the QB, unless ruled incidental by the official, would result in a

roughing the passer penalty.

5. The offense cannot impede the rusher in any way. The rusher has the right to a clear path to the quarterback, regardless of where they line up

prior to the snap. If the “path or line” is occupied by a moving offensive player, then it is the offense’s responsibility to avoid the rusher. Any

disruption to the rusher’s path and/or contact will result in an impeding the rusher penalty. If the offensive player does not move after the snap, then it

is the rusher’s responsibility to go around the offensive player and to avoid contact.

6. A sack occurs if the quarterback’s flags are pulled behind the line of scrimmage. The ball will be spotted where possession of the ball is once

the flag is pulled.

SCORING

Touchdown 6 Points

Extra Point 1 Point (played from the 3 yard line)

2 Points (played from the 6 yard line

No Safeties

PENALTIES (The ball will NEVER be moved back beyond the 3 yard line)

Offense (Defense can decline any penalty if they wish)

1. Screening, Blocking, or Running with the Ball

-5 and Loss of Down

2. Delay of Game

-5 yards and Replay the Down

If the clock is under 5:00 minutes, the penalty will result in the loss of

down. (remember you will have one warning per game)

(The younger the kids, the more lenient we will be)

3. Flag Guarding-(Holding onto to belt, stiff arms, charging, shirt over flags)

Play will be blown dead at spot of foul and ball be placed at the spot of the

foul (No yards will be lost)

4. Offensive Pass Interference (Pushing off/away on defender)

-5 yards from LOS and Loss of Down

 5. Illegal Motion/shifts, False Starts, Illegal Formation,

Play will be blown dead and replay the down. If this becomes excessive,

the referee will begin penalizing the team -5 yards from LOS and Replay

the Down

6. Impeding the Rusher (making purposeful contact with Rusher in any

way)

-5 yards from LOS and loss of down

7. False Start (Player or players start before the ball is snapped)

-5 yards and Replay the Down (Minor movement will be accepted)

DEFENSE( OFFENSE CAN DECLINE ANY PENALTY IF THEY WISH)

1. Defensive Pass Interference

5 yards plus replay the down

2. Illegal Rushing 5 yards and Replay the Down

3. Holding (Grabbing an offensive player jersey or shorts while running a

route)

5 yards and replay the down

4. QB Roughing the Passer (A defender hits the arm while the Quarterback

is throwing)

5 yards and Automatic First Down. Stay off the Quarterback arm while

throwing as safety of the kids is the most important

6. Offsides (Defensive Player lines or moves the LOS of the offense)

5 yards and replay the down

6. Pushing the player out of bounds (Note: If the hold or push out of bounds is done on 4th down

and deemed intentional to prevent 1st down or touchdown, offense will get another down from the

spot of foul +5 yards)

7. Defensive Coaches on Field During Offensive Play

5 yards and Replay the Down

General Rules:

Personal Foul/Unsportsmanlike Conduct (This includes Coaches) +5 or -5

Yards AND AUTOMATIC FIRST DOWN

2 Unsportsmanlike Conducts in one game will result in immediate

REMOVAL from the game.

Personal Foul Definition: Illegal physical contact that endangers the safety

of another player

Unsportsmanlike Conduct-Examples include verbal abuse, taunting of an

opponent or a game official, an excessive celebration following a significant

play.

DEADBALLS SCENARIOS

 Play is ruled “dead” when:

1. The ball hits the ground.

2. The ball carrier’s flag is pulled.

3. The ball carrier steps out of bounds.

4. A touchdown or extra point is scored.

5. The ball carrier’s knee hits the ground

6. The ball carrier’s flag falls off

7. The receiver catches the ball while in possession of one or no flags

8. Inadvertent whistle.

MISCELLANEOUS RULES AND SITUATIONS

1. If flags fall off without being pulled, runner is down where the flag came

off

2. Ball Carrier should stay on his feet at all times (No Diving or Jumping)

3. No Fumbles! Once the ball hits the ground it is dead

4. Games cannot end on a defensive penalty, unless the offense declines

5. Any intentional penalties at end of the game on offense or defense to

attempt to win the game or take time off the clock will NOT be tolerated.

COACHES

1. A maximum of Three Coaches are allowed on the field to direct players

 according to need and division between plays.

2. Offensive coaches can be the only coaches on the field behind the

huddle during a play( Must be minimum of five yards behind the

Quarterback at all times!)

3 Defensive Coaches can be on the sideline or back of the end-zone

during the play (Failure to do this will result in -5 yard penalty and

replaying the down)

4. Please keep subs behind the ball at all all times. Defensive

Substitutions should be on the sidelines behind the ball at all times for

safety reasons.

*********WE RESERVE THE RIGHT TO CHANGE ANY OF THESE RULES AT ANY TIME FOR THE BETTERMENT OF THE LEAGUE HAVE FUN!