How to Play Flag Football | NFL Flag Football Basics

Summary

Coach Zo's video script offers an in-depth guide to flag football, emphasizing the no-contact rule and the importance of teamwork. It covers the basics of gameplay, including formations, routes, and scoring. The script also provides detailed instructions on catching and throwing techniques, with practical drills to improve skills. Additionally, it touches on offensive strategies, highlighting the role of each player and the significance of creating space for successful plays. The video concludes with a reminder of the importance of a healthy diet for athletic performance and provides resources for those interested in joining a flag football league.

Takeaways

• 🏈 No contact is allowed in flag football, emphasizing safety by disallowing tackles and blocks.
• 🚩 To stop the play, pull one or both flags off the ball carrier instead of tackling.
• 🤝 Teams should form a huddle to discuss and assign routes and roles for the play.
• 🔄 The offensive team's goal is to move the ball downfield within four downs to score a touchdown.
• ⏰ In a modified version, two successful forward passes within four downs result in a first down.
• 🔄 If a first down isn't achieved, possession switches to the opposing team.
• 🚫 Fumbles are not part of the game; the ball remains with the offense and is spotted where the ball carrier's feet were.
• 📚 Interceptions are allowed, and the defensive team can run with the intercepted ball to gain yardage.
• 🏃‍♂️ Good hand positioning is crucial for catching the ball, whether high, low, or to the side.
• 🤸‍♂️ Agility and quick footwork are key for receivers to create space and successfully catch passes.
• 🍎 Encouragement to maintain a healthy diet with fruits and vegetables for energy and growth.

Q & A

What is the primary rule in flag football?

The first and most important rule in flag football is that there's no contact allowed. Players cannot tackle or block their opponents.

How do you stop the play in flag football?

In flag football, to stop the play, you pull one or both of the ball carrier's flags off instead of tackling.

What is the role of the quarterback in a huddle?

The quarterback's role in a huddle is to clearly communicate the routes and identify the intended receiver for the play.

What are the typical positions on the offensive team in flag football?

The offensive team typically consists of a quarterback, a center, and the rest of the players who are receivers.

How does the defensive team usually play in flag football?

In flag football, the defensive team typically plays man-to-man coverage, with the quarterback covering the receivers, the defensive line covering the center, and the safety covering the quarterback.

What is the objective of the offensive team during a play?

The objective of the offensive team is to move the ball downfield towards the end zone to score a touchdown.

What happens if the offensive team fails to get a first down in flag football?

If the offensive team fails to get a first down, the other team gets possession of the ball and starts their offensive play going in the opposite direction.

How are passes and the line of scrimmage determined in flag football?

All passes in flag football must go forward and be received beyond the line of scrimmage. If a player's flag is pulled while running with the ball, their feet determine the spot, not the flag.

What is the rule regarding fumbles in flag football?

In flag football, there are no fumbles. Instead, the ball remains in possession of the offense and is spotted where the ball carrier's feet were when the fumble occurred.

How should a player catch a high or medium pass in flag football?

To catch a high or medium pass, a player should extend their arms and create a diamond shape by putting their thumbs and pointer fingers together.

What is the proper technique for throwing a football?

To throw a football, a player should cup their thumb beneath the ball and place their fingers on the laces. They should stand sideways, lift the ball to their ear, bend their elbow at a 90° angle, and throw in a fluid motion, stepping forward with the front foot, rotating hips, and extending the throwing arm with a wrist pop.

What is the purpose of practicing handoffs in flag football?

Practicing handoffs in flag football helps players learn to take the ball from the quarterback and run a designated route, simulating the actions of a running back in a game.

What is a route tree and how is it used in flag football?

A route tree is a diagram that shows different routes a receiver can run for each play. It helps teams learn and plan the various routes needed for different plays, such as the post, flag, drag, and out routes.

Outlines

00:00

🏈 Flag Football Basics

This paragraph introduces the fundamental rules of flag football, emphasizing no contact is allowed, and tackling or blocking is prohibited. Instead, players must pull the ball carrier's flags to stop the play. It outlines the initial steps of a game, including team huddles, communication of routes, and positioning on the line of scrimmage. The quarterback's role in directing plays and the defensive team's man-to-man coverage strategy are explained. The paragraph also covers the concept of downs, modified rules for first downs, and the requirement for forward passes to be beyond the line of scrimmage. It concludes with advice on how to play safely and effectively, highlighting the game's inclusivity and the importance of motivation and teamwork.

05:02

🤓 Mastering Catching and Throwing Techniques

This section delves into the skills required for catching and throwing a football. It explains the proper hand positioning for different types of passes, whether high, medium, or low. The paragraph advises on how to secure the ball after catching it by tucking it close to the body. A practice routine is suggested, starting on one knee and progressing to standing and catching at a distance. The focus is on maintaining correct form and technique for both catching and throwing. The paragraph further details the mechanics of throwing, including grip, body positioning, and the importance of a fluid motion for a spiral throw. It also introduces a drill for quarterbacks to practice dropping back and throwing, emphasizing the need for quick and seamless movements to mimic game conditions.

10:02

🏃‍♂️ Building Offensive Strategy

The final paragraph shifts focus to offensive strategy in flag football. It starts by discussing the importance of formations, which dictate player positions and prevent overcrowding on the field. The paragraph uses a single back formation as an example, explaining how routes are assigned to each player. It introduces the concept of a route tree, which helps players learn the various routes required for different plays. The paragraph outlines specific routes such as the slant, flag, corner, post, drag, and out routes, each with its unique path and purpose. It also touches on the importance of creating space and using footwork, agility, and speed to evade defenders. The paragraph concludes with a drill for practicing handoffs and running back plays, emphasizing the need for smooth and quick exchanges between the quarterback and running back.

🥗 Promoting Health and Football Engagement

This closing paragraph promotes a healthy lifestyle, encouraging the consumption of fruits and vegetables for energy and growth. It also provides information on how to learn more about the 'Fuel Up to Play 60' program, which focuses on school health and wellness, and directs interested individuals to the program's website. Additionally, it gives details on how to find an NFL FLAG Football League for those seeking to participate in organized play, with a link to the NFL FLAG's official website.

Keywords

💡Flag Football

Flag football is a variant of American football where instead of tackling, players remove a flag or flag belt from the ball carrier to stop the play. This non-contact sport emphasizes teamwork and strategy, making it accessible to a wide range of players. In the script, flag football is the central theme, with rules and gameplay strategies being explained to ensure participants can enjoy the sport safely and effectively.

💡Huddle

A huddle in football is a gathering of the offensive team on the field to discuss the play that will be run. The quarterback typically leads the huddle, communicating the routes and the intended receiver. The huddle is crucial for coordinating team efforts and ensuring everyone is on the same page before the play begins, as mentioned in the script where it's emphasized that the quarterback needs to clearly communicate the routes.

💡Line of Scrimmage

The line of scrimmage is an imaginary line that passes through the point of the ball at the start of each play. It separates the offense and defense and is where the play begins. In the script, players take their positions on the line of scrimmage, and it's also mentioned that if an offensive player's flag is pulled, the ball is spotted where their feet were, which can change the line of scrimmage.

💡Man-to-Man Coverage

Man-to-man coverage is a defensive strategy in football where each defender is assigned to cover one specific offensive player. This requires the defenders to stay close to their assigned player to prevent them from catching the ball. The script mentions that the defensive team will play man-to-man coverage, with specific positions like the quarterback covering the receivers and the safety covering the quarterback.

💡First Down

A first down is achieved when the offensive team advances the ball 10 yards or more down the field within a set number of plays, typically four. In the script, it's explained that if the offensive team completes two forward passes within their four downs, they earn a first down and another set of four downs to continue moving the ball towards the end zone.

💡Touchdown

A touchdown is scored when the ball is carried across the goal line or caught in the end zone. It is worth six points and is the primary way to score in football. The script emphasizes the offensive team's goal to move the ball downfield toward the end zone to score a touchdown.

💡Interceptions

An interception occurs when a defensive player catches a pass that was intended for an offensive player. This can change the possession of the ball and is a strategic play in football. The script clarifies that interceptions are allowed in flag football and if the defensive team intercepts the ball, it is still alive, and they can run with it to gain yardage.

💡Penalties

Penalties are rules infractions that result in a loss of yardage or down, and can be assessed by a referee or teacher in the case of flag football. The script mentions that penalties will be assessed, and players should only go for the ball carrier's flag when on defense to limit contact, which is a specific penalty-related strategy.

💡Catching Technique

Catching technique refers to the proper way to receive a pass in football, which involves hand positioning, body posture, and securing the ball. The script provides detailed instructions on how to catch a football, emphasizing the creation of a diamond shape with the hands and the importance of tucking the ball close to the body after the catch.

💡Throwing Technique

Throwing technique in football involves a specific grip, body positioning, and motion to deliver an accurate and spiraling pass. The script outlines the steps for throwing a football, including finding a comfortable grip, positioning the body sideways, and the importance of a fluid motion and wrist pop for a successful pass.

💡Formation

A formation in football is the arrangement of players at the start of a play. It dictates each player's position and role, which is crucial for the play's strategy. The script discusses different offensive formations, such as the single back, and how they set up the routes for the receivers, which is essential for creating space and opportunities to advance the ball.

Highlights

No contact is allowed in flag football; players must pull flags to stop the play.

Teams should form a huddle to discuss routes and the intended receiver.

Offensive team positions include a quarterback, center, and receivers.

Defensive team plays man-to-man coverage with specific assignments.

The offensive team has four downs to get a first down or score a touchdown.

A modified rule states that two forward passes within four downs result in a first down.

Passes must go forward and be received beyond the line of scrimmage.

If a ball carrier's flag is pulled, the ball is spotted where the player's feet were.

Fumbles result in the ball staying with the offense, spotted where the fumble occurred.

Interceptions are allowed, and the defensive team can run with the ball to gain yardage.

Penalties are assessed to limit contact and ensure fair play.

Flag football is inclusive, requiring motivation and teamwork rather than specific physical attributes.

Catching technique involves creating a diamond shape with hands for high or medium passes.

For low passes, use a 'rake' hand position and always maintain form.

After catching, tuck the ball in tight using your forearm and squeeze your elbow close to your body.

Throwing technique includes finding a comfortable grip and positioning your body sideways.

To throw, lift the ball to your ear, rotate your arm back, and step forward to release with a spiral motion.

Dropping back before passing allows for better positioning and gives receivers time to get open.

Offensive formations are crucial for preventing players from running into each other.

Route trees help players learn different routes for various plays.

Examples of routes include slant, flag, corner, post, drag, and out routes.

Creating space from defenders is key for successful passing and catching.

Running backs practice taking handoffs and running designated routes for first downs or touchdowns.

Proper nutrition, like eating fruits and vegetables, is emphasized for energy and growth.

Transcripts

I just wanted to talk to you about the

rules of flag football so you can step

on the field

prepared the first and most important

rule is that there's no contact allowed

so remember you can't tackle or block

your opponent instead you'll pull one or

both of the ball carriers Flags off to

stop the play okay now that we have that

covered let's walk through a game to

start each team should form a huddle

just like we've practiced in our lessons

in the Huddle the quarterback needs to

clearly communicate the routes and who

the intended receiver is for that play

Then each team will take their position

on the line of scrimmage with one on

offense and the other on defense

typically the offensive team will have a

quarterback a center and the rest of the

players are receivers in our game the

defensive team will play man-to-man

coverage with the quarterbacks covering

the receivers the defensive line

covering the center and the safety

covering the quarterback remember that

the safety has a choice they can stay

back in help cover the receivers or they

can rush the passer at the start of the

play the offensive team's goal is to

move the ball downfield toward the end

zone to score a touchdown they have four

downs meaning they have four chances to

get a first down to keep the game moving

we're actually going to play a modified

version when the officer team completes

two forward passes within the four downs

it becomes a first down and they get

another set of four downs to move the

ball to the end zone but if they fail to

get a first down then the other team

gets the ball going the other direction

ction when the offensive team has the

ball All Passes must go forward and be

received beyond the line of scrimmage if

it's offensive player's flag is pulled

when they're running with the ball their

feet determine where their ball is

spotted not the flag that means the line

of scrimmage will continuously change as

you're playing another important rule to

know is that during the game there are

no fumbles instead the ball stays in

possession of the offense and is spotted

where the ball carries feet were when

the fumble occurred however

interceptions are allowed and if the

defensive team intercepts the ball is

still alive and they can run with it to

gain yardage throughout the game

penalties will be assessed by your

teacher but as a general rule of thumb

only go for the ball carriers flag when

you're on defense to limit contact on

the field I know that's a lot of rules

to take in but as you're playing you'll

start to catch on because the best part

of playing flag football is it's

designed for everyone you don't need a

specific build or even prior football

experience to play If You're motivated

and a team player you can dominate on

the field so good luck luck and of

course have

fun hey I'm coach zo and in today's

lesson I'm going to teach you the basic

fundamentals of catching and throwing a

football making the catch is one of the

most exciting parts of the game but it

does take some skill how you catch the

ball really depends on where it's thrown

for example when a pass is thrown above

your Weist place you want to extend your

arms and create a diamond shape by

putting your thumbs and poter fingers

together you always want to use the hand

positioning for medium or high balls

even when it's thrown to your

side for low passes you want to make a

rake with your hands by putting them in

front of you with your pinky fingers

together again maintain this form on low

passes even if it's thrown to the

side after you make the catch your next

move is to tuck the ball in tight use

your forearm and squeeze your elbow

close to your body to protect the

ball ready to

practice grab a partner a poly spot in

one football per group just like our

last session we're going to start on one

knee if you're right-handed put your

right knee on the ground and if you're

left-handed put your left knee on the

ground practice using the correct hand

positioning when catching the ball

whether it's thrown up high or down low

then when you feel comfortable with your

form stand up and start throwing at a

farther distance focus on catching the

ball first and then tucking it tight

against your

body challenge your partner and see how

many passes you can catch in a row

without dropping the ball good luck and

have

fun we'll break down the proper

technique to use step by step so you can

throw and catch consistently every

time first let's start with how to throw

a football it's important to find a grip

that you're comfortable with cup your

thumb beneath the ball and place your

fingers on the laces some players like

to hold the ball with just a couple of

fingers on the laces others hold it with

all there's no wrong answer just make

sure you have a good grip so you can

control the

football then you want to position your

body so that you're standing sideways

with your feet shoulder width apart and

your weight mostly on your back

leg lift the ball to your ear and bend

your elbow at a 90° angle as you rotate

your arm back to throw in one fluid

motion step forward with your front foot

rotate your hips and extend your

throwing arm when you release the ball

pop your wrist with your palm facing

down and follow through all the way this

will help you get the desired spiral

effect after you start to feel more

comfortable with your form you can

practice dropping back before the pass

dropping back allows quarterbacks to

best position themselves to throw and

give receivers more time to get open in

this drill we're practice shuffling back

three Paces you can take different

angles or cross one foot over the other

as you quickly move backward the goal is

to make these movements fast and

seamless just like you would in the

game now let's cover how to catch a

football the easiest way to catch the

ball to square your shoulders and frame

your body so that you're either facing

the quarterback or directly in the path

of the ball extend your arms at chest

height and create a diamond shape by

putting your pointed fingers and thumbs

together after you catch the ball you

need to protect it from The Defenders

use your hand forearm and elbow to tuck

it close and tight to your

body remember passing and catching takes

time it's okay if you're not perfect

right away the more you practice your

form and technique the easier it will

become hi coach zo here and in today's

lesson I'm going to teach you how to

build offensive

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strategy the first thing you need to

know is that every offensive flag

football play starts with a formation

these formation giz receives a specific

location on the line of scrimmage which

prevents them from running into each

other or crowding on the

field let's take a look at the example

this formation is called the single back

for five on five flag football

is built with one receiver on each side

of the center and quarterback and

another a few yards behind where each

player is located at the start of the

play represents the offensive formation

and the arrows reflect the routes each

player will run as a reminder a route is

a predetermined path the receiver will

run to open themselves up to catch a

pass many teams use a route tree to

learn the different routes they'll need

to know for each play you've learned a

few routes already in your lessons such

as the post flag and drag here's an

example of a route tree you can use for

your upcoming games for example when

you're running a slant you'll run

forward for a couple of yards and then

make a sharp cut inward on a 45° angle

the goal is the easiest route in the

book just run straight down field and

fast in a flag route also known as a

corner route you'll run 10 yards and

then cut at a 45° angle toward the back

corner of the end zone likewise in a

post route you'll run 10 yards and then

cut inside at a 45° angle toward the go

post post a drag is a shorter route

where you run for about 5 yards and then

make a 90° turn and Sprint across the

middle of the field in an out route

you'll run 10 yards down the field and

then make a 90° cut toward the sideline

you can use a combination of formations

and routes to create your own flag

football play let's look at the single

back play again see how the receivers on

both sides run post routes cutting

toward the middle of the field the

receiver behind the quarterback does a

corner route after they cross the line

of scrimmage and if none of the

receivers are open the center can

release and do a corner route as well

this play also works because it gives

the quarterback a few options at

different yardages but keep in mind that

flag football plays are only effective

when the receivers are able to get open

and catch a pass so when you're running

your route you need to create space

between you and the

defender that's where quick foot work

agility and speed come into play making

quick sharp pivots and juking out the

defender will help you get the distance

you need to success ful catch the pass

running backs are an important position

on offense their job is to carry the

ball for the first down or a touchdown

so on this drill you'll practice taking

a hand off from the quarterback and then

running a designated route just like a

running back wi in the game here's how

it

works find a partner and go to a set of

running Lanes one person is the

quarterback who hands off the ball and

the other is the running back who

receives the ball each lane represents a

hole with a running back and

[Music]

run the first few times you try this

your handoff might be a little clumsy

and that's okay eventually as you

practice you'll figure out the Rhythm

with your partner to create smooth quick

handoffs just like in a real game we'll

continue to work on routes in our next

lesson too but this time we'll practice

both passing and running plays eat lots

of fruits and veggies they're a great

source of vitamins and minerals

the kinds that give you energy and help

you grow

strong to learn more about fuel up topl

60 a leading school health and wellness

program Nationwide visit

www. fueluptoplay60

decom if you're interested in finding an

NFL FLAG Football League near you visit

nflflag.com

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