Field Dimensions
High School Rules Overview
Our High School Division follows USA Football 5v5 and 7v7 regulations, creating a fast-paced, competitive format designed to prepare athletes for higher levels of flag football. Players are encouraged to learn the official rules, field structure, and game concepts used in national competition while continuing to develop their skills, football IQ and understanding of the game.
Core Gameplay & Basics
No Contact: No tackling, diving, blocking, or screening are allowed. Defenders stop a play by pulling a flag from the runner's belt.
Team Size: Formats often use 5-on-5 or 7-on-7 players on the field.
Four 12-minute quarters (clock management may vary by event)
Moving the Ball: The offense has four plays (downs) to cross midfield for a first down, and four more plays to score a touchdown.
Scoring: Touchdowns are worth 6 points. Extra points are worth 1 point from the 5-yard line or 2 points from the 10-yard line.
GREAT sportsmanship and player safety are emphasized at all times.
Offensive Rules
No Linemen: There is no traditional offensive line; the center snaps the ball and immediately runs out as a receiver.
Passing Limit: The quarterback usually has 7 seconds to throw the ball after receiving the snap.
No-Run Zones: Areas within 5 yards of the end zone or midfield prohibit running plays; all plays in these zones must be passes.
Flag Guarding: Runners cannot use their hands, arms, or the ball to block a defender from pulling their flag.[1, 2, 3]
Defensive Rules
Blitzing: Blitzing defenders rushing the quarterback must start at least 7 yards back from the line of scrimmage and raise a hand to signal.
Obstruction: Offensive players cannot block or get in the path of a legal blitzer.
Flag Stripping: Defenders can only pull flags from a player who actively possesses the ball
Common Penalties
Offside
False Start
Illegal Motion
Delay of Game
Holding
Illegal Contact
Pass Interference
Flag Guarding
Unsportsmanlike Conduct
