Flag Football Review

Down

A down represents a single play attempt starting with the snap and ending when the ball becomes dead.

Touchdown

Scored when a player carries or catches the ball in the opponent’s endzone.

Conversion

Points attempted after a touchdown by running or passing the ball into the endzone again.

Handoff

When the quarterback (QB) hands the ball to another player following the snap.

Snap

The movement of the ball by the center to start the play.

Line of Scrimmage

An imaginary line marking the starting point of each play, where teams cannot cross until the play begins.

Offside

A penalty occurring when an offensive player moves beyond the line of scrimmage before the snap.

Incompletion

A forward pass that touches the ground without being caught.

Interception

A pass caught by the opposing team, changing possession.

Quarterback (QB)

Leader of the offense and play caller, responsible for coordinating plays.

Center

Innermost lineman who snaps the ball to the quarterback to start the play.

Wide Receiver (Receiver)

Positioned outside the offensive formation, primarily catching passes.

Slant

Receiver takes a few steps forward, then cuts toward the middle of the field at a 45-degree angle.

Hook

Receiver runs a distance upfield, stops, and turns back to catch the ball.

Hail Mary

A long, deep pass thrown as a last-ditch effort to score.

Out

Receiver runs downfield, then toward the sideline.

Seven-second count

A rule where the defensive team must count to allow the offense time to execute their play.

Possession Change

Occurs if a flag is pulled from the ball carrier or if the offense fails to score in four downs.

Gameplay Flow

The play begins when the ball is snapped, emphasizing strategy and positioning.

Flag pulling

The method used by the defense to stop play in place of tackling.

Strategy and agility

Key elements emphasized in flag football, enhancing the game's pace and excitement.