Flag Football For Dummies Cheat Sheet

Flag football is a fast, fun, and inclusive sport that’s exploding in popularity around the world. Whether you’re new to the game or need a quick refresher before you hit the field, this cheat sheet gives you a snapshot of the rules, key positions, scoring, penalties, and strategies you need to know. Keep it handy for practices, games, or game day watching.

Need-to-know flag football rules

Flag football is fast, fun, and an easy sport to learn and play, with one major rule you must always follow: Flag football is noncontact. Naturally, the sport has other rules that help to keep it dynamic and fair. This list highlights some of flag football’s basic rules:

Flag football player positions at a glance

Flag football isn’t just about the game itself. At its heart, the sport is about teamwork, mentorship, and community — it’s about the people who make it happen. A team of players all working together toward the common goal of scoring the most points to win the game is a beautiful thing! Here are the players who comprise a flag football team:

• Quarterback (QB): The heart and brain of the offense. The quarterback calls the play, reads the defense, and delivers accurate passes under pressure. Whether it’s a quick throw or a last-second deep ball, the QB is always in control.
• Wide receiver (WR): The go-to playmaker. Wide receivers use sharp routes, reliable hands, and explosive speed to create separation from defenders. They stretch the field vertically and horizontally to make big plays or keep drives alive with short gains.
• Center (C): More than just the snapper. The center gets every play started and quickly releases into short routes after snapping the ball. Often overlooked, but a key target in fast-paced plays and short-yardage situations.
• Rusher (R): The defense’s disrupter; also known as the blitzer. The rusher explodes off the line to apply pressure on the quarterback. Speed, timing, and body control are critical for getting past blockers and forcing quick decisions.
• Linebacker (LB): The ultimate hybrid. Linebackers cover short routes, help in the run game, and keep their eyes on the quarterback. They need sharp instincts, fast reaction time, and solid flag-pulling technique.
• Cornerback and free safety (CB/FS): The guardians of the secondary. Corners line up across from receivers to shut down routes, while safeties read the entire field, protecting against deep passes and helping stop big plays. Vision, anticipation, and quick feet define these roles. They are defensive backs who cover receivers and protect against deep passes.

Common penalties in flag football

Referees and officials enforce the rules of flag football, ensuring fairness and keeping games running smoothly. This table provides a quick reference of the most frequent penalties referees call on the field:

Offensive and defensive formations in flag football

In flag football, a successful play starts with the right formation. Getting the formation right is like setting the stage: Each player lines up, paying attention to how much space is between them. How balanced the formation looks directly affects how the play unfolds. Flag football has several offensive and defensive formations, each with its own alignment and purpose. This table shows three formations for each one.

Quick tips for new flag football players

Starting flag football for the first time? These quick tips will help you feel more confident and prepared from your very first game. Whether you’re playing for fun or chasing competition, these simple reminders will keep you sharp and ready on the field:

• Tuck your jersey in and keep your flags visible at all times.
• Avoid contact! Remember, this is a noncontact game.
• Catch with your hands, not your body, and always finish the play.
• Stay loud on defense — communicate switches, coverage, and blitzes.
• Hydrate, hustle, and have fun!