Whether you’re watching a professional team on television, or a youth football game in your hometown, there’s nothing quite like the adrenaline rush of a competitive game. The best part is, football isn’t just about scoring a touchdown. It’s about teamwork.
Goal line
During a football game, the goal line divides the field of play from the end zone. Goals are scored when the ball crosses the goal line. In some sports, a goal is not scored if the ball passes over the goal line, but the goal can count if the ball is passed over the goal line but not under the crossbar.
In football, the goal line is marked with a chalk or paint line. It is painted to match the sidelines. It is 10 yards in length, and runs parallel to the end lines in American football and 20 yards in length, and parallel to the dead lines in Canadian football.
Field dimensions
Among the millions of football fields that grace stadiums and greens around the country, the most mundane of all is the one in your backyard. The gimmick is that it is a bare bones, unadulterated drudgery. As a result, its competitors enjoy the lion’s share of the sporting limelight. Fortunately, there is a silver lining in the form of some friendly rivals. And the best part is the resulting camaraderie ain’t cheap.
Tight ends
TEs are known for their versatility. They can be a pass catcher, a blocker or both. Tight ends are expected to convert a high percentage of passes thrown to them.
Traditionally, the tight end is not a player that is used on a lot of plays. The position requires a lot of strength and hand-eye coordination. The best tight ends are 6’3” and above. This helps to create mismatches on the offensive side of the ball.
Defensive line
Usually the most expensive position on the field, the defensive line is responsible for stopping the opposing offense. This team will usually have three or four players in this position. They need to have strong hands and fast reactions. They need to be able to make tackles in the backfields.
They will also need to be able to put pressure on the quarterback. This means they need to be able to get sacks. Typically the defensive ends are the most talented pass rushers.
Special-teams players
Having a good special-teams player can make or break a game. Not every team has the requisite ace in the hole to make the difference between a win and a loss. A few notable examples include Todd Peterson of the 49ers, Ryan Longwell of the Packers, and Sherrick McManis of the Bears.
There is a special type of player called a gunner. This player is usually a backup tight end or center and runs down the field to take on the returner. It’s a skill that requires speed and agility. Depending on the type of team, they can earn big bucks.
International competitions
Taking place every four years, the FIFA World Cup is a contest between 190 to 200 national teams in four weeks. The most successful international football competitions have their own leagues and tournaments. Some of the oldest and most successful continental competitions are the CONCACAF Gold Cup and the Champions League.
The UEFA governing body of European football organizes several competitions and sanctioning mechanisms. The FIFA Club World Cup, the most prestigious of the competitions, is held annually. It is also the largest club trophy in the world.
