by Joshua Ortiz

Created on: December 03, 2008   Last Updated: January 13, 2009

High school football rules can be complicated to understand, but they do not have to be. The overall fundamentals of the game are still intact. The rules that are modified are meant to protect the wellbeing of the adolescents involved.

One difference between high school and traditional football is the duration of each quarter. In college and the NFL each quarter lasts 15 minutes. High school players, on the other hand, play only 12 minutes per quarter. With each game four quarters in length.

A typical football game has 11 players from each team on the field at any given time. In some states, however, school populations may not permit this number. To accommodate, games may also be played in increments of six, eight, or nine player teams.

In high school football the ball is placed on the 40 yard line prior to the kickoff. A kickoff is performed at the beginning of each game and anytime a team makes a touchdown. The opposing team attempts to catch the ball and run it back to the goal, also known as the end zone.

The team on offense is given four plays, also known as downs, to score. In each of these downs the offense attempts to make it to the end zone for a touchdown. The defense tries to stop this action by stopping the offense's progression.

High school football has strict rules in regard to blocking. For example, players are not allowed to come in contact with another players face mask. Doing so will result in a penalty. Other stipulations involve blocking from behind, as well as below the knees.

If a team fails to make a touchdown, they may opt to try a field goal. This involves kicking the ball though a goalpost located behind the end zone. If the attempt is unsuccessful, but the ball makes it through the end zone it is considered a "touch back." Which means the opposing team receives the ball on the 20 yard line when they take over on offense.

This is, perhaps, the simplest framework of high school football. Knowing this basic framework will help you learn more advanced rules as your appreciation for the sport grows. For now, practice what you have learned by visiting your local high school football stadium and watch a game.

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