Section 5: Rules of Play
Game Length
- Two 20-minute halves (running clock except in final 2 minutes — clock stops on incomplete pass, out-of-bounds, score, change of possession)
- 1-minute half-time; OT periods if tied (alternating from 10-yard line)
Possession
- Each possession starts at offense's own 5-yard line
- Offense has 4 downs to advance past midfield → fresh 4 downs to score
- No first downs prior to midfield
- Coin toss for possession choice at game start; loser chooses 2nd half
Plays
- QB starts behind line of scrimmage; one direct hike
- Once ball is hiked: QB has 7-second pass clock or must release/lateral
- Forward pass allowed only behind line of scrimmage
- Defense cannot rush QB unless rushing from 7+ yards back (designated rusher)
Down a Player
- Player is "down" when defender removes either hip flag (or back flag if used)
- No tackling, blocking, or contact — incidental contact penalty-free; intentional contact = flag