Positions, scoring, fouls, key terms and junior game durations — the same rules reference built into the Squaddie app.
Territory, downs, clock management, and explosive teamwork.
Covers youth Flag (5v5 and 7v7) and Tackle (9v9 and 11v11) rules across ages 6–18 in the US, Australia, and New Zealand.
American football is a territorial game where the offense attempts to advance the football down the field by running or passing to score touchdowns, while the defense attempts to stop them.
4 downs to gain 10 yds (or midfield in flag)
Downs
Flag 5v5 & 7v7 / Tackle 9v9 & 11v11
Formats
Two 20-min halves (Flag) / Four 10–12 min quarters (Tackle)
Timing
Objective
Advance the ball into the opponent's end zone for a touchdown, or kick field goals through the uprights.
Line of Scrimmage
An imaginary transverse line across the field where the ball is spotted before each down.
Down System
The offense has 4 downs (attempts) to advance the ball 10 yards (in tackle) or reach midfield for a first down (in flag). Failure to convert turns the ball over on downs.
| Format | Ages | Players | Contact Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rookie Flag | Ages 6–8 | 5v5 | Non-contact, flag pulling |
| Junior Flag | Ages 9–14 | 5v5 / 7v7 | Non-contact, legal screen shields |
| Junior Tackle | Ages 11–14 | 9v9 / 11v11 | Heads Up shoulder contact |
| Varsity Tackle | Ages 14–18 | 11v11 | Full contact, NFHS / IFAF rules |
Flag and tackle pathways are kept distinct; flag football never involves tackling or helmet contact.
Rules are just the start.
Squaddie also gives you American Football drills, session plans and full season programmes — free with your first team.