Flag football is a non-contact version of American football, where players wear flags attached to their waist that opponents must remove to stop a play. The game emphasises speed, strategy, and skill rather than physical contact.​

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Gameplay & Objective

The aim is to move the ball down the field and score touchdowns by crossing the opponent’s goal line. Each team typically has five to eight players and a set number of downs (usually four) to achieve a first down or score. Instead of tackling, a play ends when a defender pulls the ball carrier’s flag.

Starting Play & Possession

A coin toss decides possession. Teams start on their side of the field, with the ball snapped from the line of scrimmage. Most leagues do not have kick-offs; instead, teams begin from a designated starting position.

Passing & Running

The quarterback can throw forward passes from behind the line of scrimmage. Running plays are usually allowed, but some leagues restrict them in certain areas. Laterals and hand-offs are permitted, depending on the league’s rules.

Defence & Flag Pulling

Defensive players aim to remove the ball carrier’s flag to stop the play. Physical contact, such as blocking, tackling, or stiff-arming, is not allowed.

Scoring

A touchdown is worth six points. Extra points can be attempted from different distances, typically worth one or two points. Some leagues also award points for defensive stops or safeties.

Penalties

Common penalties include flag guarding (shielding the flag from defenders), illegal contact, offside, and pass interference. These result in yardage loss or automatic first downs.

Game Duration

Matches usually consist of two halves, with a running clock except for stoppages like timeouts or certain penalties. The team with the most points at full-time wins.