After 80 years of hiatus, it’s safe to say that Centenary football is back and better than ever. This year, the Gents will be participating in scrimmages and exhibition contests before entering NCAA division III contests in 2024. If you’re like me and pretty unfamiliar with football, you might want to tune into this article. With that being said, I think it’s important to know the basics of football, so that we, as fans, can 1) Look cute at the games, and 2) Know what’s going on. It’s a win-win!

The world of sports is a diverse and captivating realm, offering a plethora of options for enthusiasts to dive into. One such sport that has captured the hearts of millions in the United States is American football. With its high-energy gameplay, intricate strategies, and captivating atmosphere, American football has become a cultural phenomenon. For those who have never watched or understood this sport before, fear not! This beginner's guide will unravel the mystery of the gridiron and provide you with a solid foundation to appreciate the game.

The Basics: The Field and Teams 

American football is played on a rectangular field, often referred to as the "gridiron." The field is divided into various sections, each serving a specific purpose. The most prominent sections are the end zones, located at either end of the field, where touchdowns are scored. The field is marked with yard lines, helping to measure progress.

Two teams, each consisting of 11 players, compete against each other. One team is on offense, aiming to score points, while the other is on defense, trying to prevent the offense from advancing.

Gameplay: Downs and Scoring

The game is divided into four quarters, each lasting 15 minutes, for a total of 60 minutes. However, due to stoppages, the average game duration is around three hours.

The primary objective for the offensive team is to move the ball down the field and score points. The offense is given a series of four attempts, called "downs," to advance at least 10 yards. If they succeed, they get another set of downs to continue their progress. If they don't, possession of the ball is handed over to the opposing team.

Points can be scored in various ways:

1. Touchdown (6 points): This is the most exciting play. When a player carries the ball across the opponent's goal line or catches a pass in the opponent's end zone, their team earns six points.

2. Field Goal (3 points): If the offense can't reach the end zone, they may attempt a field goal. This involves kicking the ball through the opponent's goalposts, earning three points.

3. Extra Point (1 or 2 points): After scoring a touchdown, the offense has the option to kick an extra point (1 point) or attempt to run or pass the ball into the end zone again (2 points).

4. Safety (2 points): If the defensive team tackles an offensive player in possession of the ball in their own end zone, they are awarded two points.

Key Players and Positions

American football features a wide range of player positions, each with specific roles and responsibilities. Some of the key positions include:

- Quarterback (QB): Often referred to as the team's leader, the quarterback is responsible for passing and orchestrating the offense.

- Running Back (RB): This player carries the ball and is essential for advancing on the ground.

- Wide Receiver (WR): Receivers catch passes from the quarterback and are known for their speed and agility.

- Offensive Linemen: These players form a protective barrier around the quarterback and create running lanes for the running back.

- Defensive Players: The defense aims to stop the offense from advancing. Key positions include defensive linemen, linebackers, cornerbacks, and safeties.

Strategy and Excitement

American football is a game of strategy, with teams carefully planning each play to outwit their opponents. Offensive and defensive coordinators analyze their opponents' strengths and weaknesses, adjusting tactics accordingly. This strategic aspect adds depth and excitement to the game, as teams engage in a mental battle as well as a physical one.

The Cultural Phenomenon

Beyond its gameplay, American football has become a cultural event. The Super Bowl, the championship game of the National Football League (NFL), is an annual spectacle watched by millions worldwide. It's not just about the game; it's about the halftime show, the commercials, and the sense of community that comes with gathering to watch with friends and family.

American football is a thrilling sport that combines athleticism, strategy, and camaraderie. As a beginner, understanding the basics of the game, its scoring system, player positions, and strategic elements will provide you with a solid foundation to enjoy the excitement that unfolds on the gridiron. So grab some snacks, gather with friends, and immerse yourself in the world of American football – you're in for an exhilarating ride!

You can find out more about Centenary’s Football Program at  https://www.gocentenary.com/sports/fball/index under the Sports section.

Interested in joining Centenary football in bringing back college football? You can fill out the Athlete Recruit Questionnaire at https://apply.centenary.edu/register/athletic_recruiting_form. Go Houlas!

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