Flag Football Rules

Flag football is a way to experience the excitement of the game – without contact. It’s a fun and fast-paced Game Type that can be played at any age and on various field sizes.

HOW IS FLAG DIFFERENT FROM TACKLE?

• No lineman or blocking . The center snaps the ball and becomes a receiver. All forms of contact are forbidden. Any attempt to block or shield an opponent is a penalty.
• Down and Distance . Each team has 4 plays to advance the ball past midfield. Once crossing midfield and being awarded a first down the team has 4 plays to advance the ball over the goal line. Failure to gain a first down or failure to score results in a turnover.
• No Run Zone . Depending on the set of rules being enforced, a no run zone prevents teams from conducting run plays. While in no-run zones teams cannot run the ball in any fashion. All plays must be run plays. According to the USA Football’s rules the no-run zone is a 5-yard imaginary zone before each endzone. IFAF also includes no-run zones within 5-yards on each side of midfield.
• Blitzer . Defenders who blitz the quarterback must line up at least 7 yards behind the line of scrimmage. All blitzers must be self-identified by raising one hand in the air. It is illegal for any offensive player to impede the path of the blitzer at any time.

Flag Football Rules 101

Flag football is rising! It’s one of the fastest-growing games in the world and was recently added to the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles.

If you’re interested in learning how to play, this video explains the basics of the sport. As football’s governing body, USA Football is the exclusive selector of the U.S. National Teams that play in international tournaments, including the Olympics. We hope to see you on the field!