How to Play Flag Football

If you’re new to the sport or coaching youth players, learning how to play flag football is a fantastic way to get started with a fun, safe, and inclusive version of traditional football. Flag football is fast-growing in schools, recreational leagues, and even competitive circuits because it teaches the fundamentals of football — without the physical contact.

Whether you’re looking to get your kids active, start a school league, or just become a better parent or fan by understanding the game, this total guide walks you through all the information you need to know about playing flag football from scratch.

What Is Flag Football and Why It’s Popular

Flag football is a no-contact sport in which instead of tackling, players pull flags off the belt of the ball carrier to bring a play to an end. It’s played by all ages, from pee-wee leagues to adult tournaments, because:

• It’s safer than tackle football
  
• Easy to learn
  
• Inexpensive and minimal equipment required
  
• Very adaptable for PE classes and youth sports

Key Differences Between Flag Football and Tackle Football

Feature	Flag Football	Tackle Football
Contact	No tackling allowed	Full contact
Equipment	Flags, belt, ball	Pads, helmet, ball
Players	5-8 per side (varies)	11 per side
Blocking	Not allowed	Required
Safety	Safer for all ages	Higher risk of injury

Basic Rules for How to Play Flag Football

• No tackling — just pulling flags
  
• The game is usually contested for two halves (e.g., 20 minutes each)
  
• The offense has four downs to get possession of the ball and score
  
• A touchdown scores 6 points, with optional additional points
  
• Defensive teams try to stop the offense by pulling flags or picking off passes

How Many Players in a Flag Football Team

Most recreational leagues use:

• 5-on-5
• 7-on-7
• Or 8-on-8 setups

Games youth games play will have fewer players to provide space and invite input.

Objective of a Flag Football Game

The main goal is simple: score more points than the opposing team by getting the ball into the other team’s end zone through passing or running plays.

• Scoring System of Flag Football
  
• Touchdown – 6 points
  
• 1-point conversion – From 5-yard line
  
• 2-point conversion – From 10-yard line
  
• Safety – 2 points (when defense flags in offense’s end zone)

Flag Football Field Layout and Dimensions

A standard flag football field is smaller than the regular football field:

• About 70 yards long and 25–30 yards wide
  
• Two 10-yard end zones
  
• Markers set at each 20 yards for down progression

Positions in Flag Football

As opposed to tackle football, positions are not as structured. However, traditional roles are:

Offensive Positions in Flag Football

• Quarterback (QB): Passes or hands off the ball
  
• Center (C): Snaps the ball
  
• Receivers (WR): Catch passes
  
• Running Back (RB): Runs with the ball
  
  

Defensive Positions in Flag Football

• Defensive Back (DB): Covers receivers
  
• Linebacker (LB): Guards the middle
  
• Rusher: Sacks the QB (usually one per play)

Flag Football Running Plays vs Passing Plays

Teams may run or pass:

• Running plays: Ball is handed off or QB rushes
  
• Passing plays: QB throws to another player

Note: Some leagues restrict QB rushing unless it is a sack.

How to Pull a Flag in Flag Football (and Rules)

To prevent a play:

• Pull and pick up one of the two flags on the ball carrier’s belt
  
• Must not pull shirts or physical contact
  
• If the flag is removed naturally, play is instantly over

What is Not Allowed in Flag Football

• Pushing or tackling
  
• Holding or blocking
  
• Covering your flag with your hand
  
• Flag covering is penalized
  
• Offensive linemen cannot block defenders physically

Turnovers and Downs Defined

• Offense has four downs to move to the next “first down marker
  
• If they do not make it, it’s a turnover on downs
  
• Interceptions are a turnover too
  
• Punting on 4th down is allowed in some leagues

Penalties for Flag Football

Some of the most used penalties are:

• Offside – 5 yards
• Holding – 10 yards
• Pass interference – Spot foul
• Flag guarding – 10 yards from the spot of the foul
• See this full guide for all flag football penalties

Advice on Playing Offense in Flag Football

• Spread the field
  
• Use short, quick passes
  
• Alternate between running and passing plays
  
• Maintain receivers in motion
  
• Shield your flags by turning sideways

Tips for Defending in Flag Football

• Keep low and balanced
  
• Observe the hips of the ball carrier
  
• Communicate continuously
  
• Respond quickly to passes
  
• Emphasize pulling flags, not hitting

What to Wear in Flag Football

• Athletic shorts or pants without a pocket
  
• Comfortable T-shirt or jersey
  
• Flag belt with two flags
  
• Optional: cleats for traction (consult league rules)

Equipment Required in Flag Football

• Football (youth or adult version)
  
• Flag belts (2 flags per player)
  
• Cones for field setup
  
• Whistle and stopwatch (coaches)
  
• Optional: playbooks or wristbands for team strategy

How to Coach Flag Football for Kids

• Focus on fundamentals, not complexity
  
• Teach fun and fairness
  
• Use lots of reps and rotate positions
  
• Keep games and practices upbeat
  
• Emphasize teamwork, effort, and respect’

Best Flag Football Drills for Beginners to Advanced

• Flag-pulling relay: Teaches quick reactions and proper flag-pulling form.
  
• Passing and catching stations: Develops timing and hand-eye coordination.
  
• Route-running trees: Helps receivers learn different patterns.
  
• Backpedal and break drills: Builds defensive quickness.
  
• Flag tag: A playful warm-up that improves reaction time.

👉 To learn more about detailed drills, see our full Flag Football Drills Blog here.

How to Build a Winning Flag Football Team

• Balance speed and awareness
  
• Choose a strong, accurate QB
  
• Train defense to recognize routes
  
• Mix up players to keep energy high
  
• Highlight hustle on every play
  
• Use SkillShark to evaluate players during practices and games, helping coaches identify strengths, address weaknesses, and build the most effective team possible.

Fun House Rules and Variations

• No-pressure leagues for more passing
  
• Blitz caps (restrict blitzes per half)
  
• Power-ups (bonus plays, trick plays for kid fun)
  
• Co-ed leagues with equal play rules

How to Play Flag Football in PE or School

• Streamline field size and rules
• Zone-mark with cones
• Give each student equal touches
• Make scoring optional to highlight inclusion
• Prioritize movement and involvement

Conclusion

Learning flag football opens a world of active fun, sportsmanship, and fundamental football skills — without the physical dangers of full-contact football. For parents, coaches, or players, flag football is safe, convenient, and perfect for athletes of all skill levels. And don’t forget: the best goal is to have fun, stay active, and play smart.