American Football

American football is a popular team sport in the United States. Two teams of eleven players each play on a long grassy field. They try to move a brown, oval ball down the field to score points. The game is known for its tough tackles and exciting plays.

How the Game Works

Each team takes turns on offense and defense. The offense tries to move the ball forward by running or throwing it. They score a touchdown by reaching the other team's end zone. The defense tries to stop them and take the ball back.

Walter Camp, often called the father of American football.
Walter Camp, often called the father of American football. (Unknown authorUnknown author / Wikimedia Commons)

Gear and Safety

Football can be rough, so players wear lots of safety gear. They put on helmets, shoulder pads, and mouthguards to stay safe. The field is 100 yards long with white lines across it. Games are played in four quarters.

Fun Facts

  • The Super Bowl is the biggest football game of the year in America.
  • A football is sometimes called a pigskin, even though it is made of leather.
  • A touchdown is worth six points.

Did You Know?

The first American football game was played way back in 1869 between two college teams.