Lee’s Summit Football Association Fall Season NFL Flag Rule Book

Table of Contents Welcome 3

I Rules 4

II Terminology 5-6

III Eligibility 6

IV Equipment 6-7

V Field 7-8

VI Rosters 9

VII Timing and Overtime 9

VIII Scoring 10

IX Coaches 10-12

X Live Ball/Dead Ball 12-13

XI Running 13-14

XII Passing 15

XIII Receiving 15

XIV Rushing the Passer 16

XV Flag Pulling 16-17

XVI Formations 18

XVII Unsportsmanlike Conduct 18-19

XVIII Penalties 19-20

XVIV Grade League Rule Exceptions 20-22

Welcome Parents, Coaches, Players & Supporters, The Lee’s Summit Football Association (LSFA) was formed to provide athletes in the City of Lee’s Summit and/or the Lee’s Summit R-7 School District an opportunity to learn and play flag and tackle football. Working in cooperation with USA Football and Lee’s Summit Middle and High School coaches, we teach both our coaches and players the latest and safest techniques. Adoption of these techniques allows our athletes to play the game in the safest manner while preparing them for future success at higher levels. LSFA’s Fall NFL Flag program is an introductory recreational league designed to teach K-7th grade athletes football fundamentals and skills. The fall league is more robust than the spring league by extending the season length from four to twelve weeks which allows more advanced instruction to occur. 6 games minimum with 8 games or more expected provide the competitive environment to help solidify these teachings. The flag program is designed to facilitate a successful transition into the tackle program if pursued. 2019 is our second fall season of adopting the NFL Flag framework. LSFA has kept many of the same rules; but, have tailored others to better suite our league and facilities. Please ensure you review the rulebook for changes. Teams participating in NFL Flag regional or national tournaments are advised to download the official NFL Flag rulebook for tournament play. If you were to have additional questions after reviewing the rule book, please direct these to admin@lsfootball.org. Thank you for your continued support and participation in LSFA! Lee’s Summit Football Association

Rules Disclaimer: Official NFL Flag rules have been tailored for LSFA’s use. Teams participating in NFL Flag regional or national tournaments should visit www.nflflag.com to obtain official rules for tournament play. Rules not directly addressed within this rule book will default to the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) and Missouri State High School Activities Association (MSHAA) rules. 1. At the start of each game, head coaches and captains from both teams meet at midfield. The head referee will first inspect that:

A. Players a. Are wearing a protective mouthpiece b. Are wearing their GameBreaker soft-shell headgear c. NFL Flag belts have been tucked or trimmed to ensure that no excess belt

length is hanging from the players d. Jerseys are tucked in and with no apparent obstruction to flags.

B. Coaches

a. Are wearing their ID badges b. Rotation sheets have been filled out c. NOTE: The head coach will not be allowed to coach from the sideline

until both the ID badge and rotation sheet are available. Spare rotational sheets may be obtained from the concession stand.

The visiting team will call the coin toss to determine who starts with the ball. 2. The winner of the coin toss has the choice of offense or defense. The loser of the coin toss has the choice of field direction. Possession changes to start the second half to the team that started the game on defense. The winner of the coin toss will determine field direction to start the second half. Direction of play shall change at the end of 1st and 3rd quarters. 3. Direction of play will switch at the end of the first and third quarters. EXCEPTION: Grades K-3 will only play in one direction as noted. 4. The offensive team takes possession of the ball on the 5-yard line and has four (4) plays to make a first down or score a touchdown. If a first down is reached a new set of four (4) plays is received. First downs occur on the offense’s 20-yard line and the opponent’s 20-yard line. EXCEPTION: Grades K-3 The offensive team takes possession of the ball on the 5-yard line and has four (4) plays to cross the 20- yard line. Once a team crosses the 20-yard line, it has four (4) plays to score a touchdown.

5. If the offense fails to score or obtain a first down within a given 4 play series, the ball changes possession. The new offensive team starts on their 5-yard line and play occurs in the opposite direction. EXCEPTION: Grades K-3 The new offensive team will take possession on the 5-yard line. 6. All possession changes start on the offense’s 5-yard line unless an interception occurs. All interceptions are returnable. The team which made the interception will begin on offense where the player who returned the interception is ruled down unless the play ends with the ball behind the defense’s own 5-yard line, then they may start their offensive possession at their 5-yard line. EXCEPTION: Interceptions at grades K-3 the ball will be spotted by the official to set the offense into the appropriate direction at the equivalent spot on the field NOTE: THIS SPOT CANNOT BE CHALLENGED. Terminology Boundary Lines The outer perimeter lines around the field. They include the sidelines

and back of the end zone lines. Line-of-scrimmage

(LOS) an imaginary line running through the point of the football and across the width of the field.

Line-to-Gain The line the offense must pass to get a first down or score. Rush Line An imaginary line running across the width of the field ten yards

(into the defensive side) from the line-of-scrimmage. Offense The team with possession of the ball. Defense The team opposing the offense to prevent it from advancing the ball. Passer The offensive player that throws the ball and may or may not be the

quarterback. Rusher The defensive player assigned to rush the quarterback to prevent

him/ her from passing the ball by pulling his/her flags or by blocking the pass.

Downs (1-4) The offensive team has four attempts or “downs” to advance the ball. It must cross the line to gain to get another set of downs or to score.

Live Ball Refers to the period of time that the play is in action. Generally used regarding penalties. Live ball penalties are considered part of the play and must be enforced before the down is considered complete.

Dead Ball Refers to the period of time immediately before or after a play.

Whistle Sound made by an official using a whistle that signifies the end of the play or a stop in the action for a timeout, halftime, or the end of the game.

Inadvertent Whistle

Official’s whistle that is performed in error.

Charging An illegal movement of the ball-carrier directly at a defensive player who has established position on the field. This includes lowering the head or initiating contact with a shoulder, forearm, or the chest.

Flag Guarding An illegal act by the ball-carrier to prevent a defender from pulling the ball-carrier’s flags by stiff arm, lowering elbow or head or by blocking access to the runner’s flags with a hand or arm.

Shovel Pass A legal pitch attempted beyond the line-of-scrimmage. Lateral A backward or sideway toss of the ball to a ball-carrier. Unsportsmanlike Conduct

A rude, confrontational, or offensive behavior or language.

Eligibility All players’ legal guardians must agree to the online waiver form submitted during registration at www.lsfootball.org Additional eligibility requirements are outlined within the LSFA Formation Guidelines posted at www.lsfootball.org. Game playing time may be restricted to players who do not attend at least 50% of the team’s organized practices or for disciplinary reasons. The head coach will make this determination and communicate this decision to the guardians and player prior to game time. Equipment 1. The league provides each player with an official NFL Flag belt and team jersey which each

player can keep after the season ends. GameBreaker soft-shell headgear is also provided which is required to be worn during all practices and games. GameBreaker headgear is to be returned to the head coach after the last game; otherwise, replacement charges will be issued pursuant to the terms outlined during registration. Teams will use footballs provided by the league. Pee Wee size balls will be used for K - 3rd grade games; whereas, junior size balls will be used for 4th - 7th grade games.

2. Players must wear shoes. Cleats may be worn; but, must be rubber molded.

3. Players may tape their forearms, hands, and fingers. Players may wear gloves, elbow pads and knee pads. Braces with exposed metals are not allowed.

4. Players must remove all jewelry, hats, and do-rags. Winter beanies are allowed. 5. Players’ game jerseys must be tucked into shorts or pants. 6. We recommend players wear shorts or pants that do not have pockets. Shorts or pants

with belt loops or pockets must be taped. 7. Mouthpieces are not furnished by the league but must be worn always during game play

and at practices. 8. Excess belt length is not allowed to freely hang off the belt. Excess length must be tucked,

tied, taped, or trimmed to avoid defensive confusion of an extra flag being present and reducing risk to the player if pulled upon. **NOTE**: if trimming is used please be careful not to trim too short since players will be wearing bulkier clothes later in the season AND tape the trimmed end to ensure fraying or belt tearing does not occur. The league suggests simply taping the excess belt length to the inside of the main belt to avoid these problems.

Field

1. Field Sizes: A. The field dimensions for 4th – 7th grades are regulation width (53 1/3 yards) by 80

yards (includes two 10-yard end zones). No-run zones precede each line-to-gain by 5 yards. First down markers will be positioned at the 20-yard lines.

B. The field dimensions for K-3 are The field dimensions are 49 yards wide by 40 yards long with a 5-yard end zone behind the offense and a 10-yard scoring end zone. There is also a midfield line-to-gain. No-run zones precede each line-to gain by 5 yards. First down markers will be positioned at the 20-yard line.

2. Games for 4th – 7th will be played from the 5-yard line to the end zone, going in both

directions. Games for K-3rd will be played in one direction. The spectator walk way will pass between the endzones of the K-3rd fields and flow to the pre-game stretch/practice area which will be in the open area next to one of the two end zones.

3. “No-Run Zones are in place to prevent teams from conducting power run plays. While in

the “No-Run Zones (a 5-yard imaginary zone before each first down and before the end zone), teams cannot run the ball in any fashion. All plays must be passing plays and the ball must be thrown beyond the line-of-scrimmage. Passes not progressing beyond the line of scrimmage in “No-Run Zones” will be considered intentional grounding.

A. If the offense commits a penalty to force the ball beyond the “No Run Zone”, the No

Run Zone shall STILL BE IN EFFECT after enforcement of the penalty. B. Each offensive team can approach THREE no-run zones in each drive (one 5 yards

prior to each of the two first downs and one 5 yards from the goal line to score a TD). EXCEPTION: Grades K-3 will play no-run zones as noted on the field dimensions.

4. Stepping on the boundary line is considered out of bounds. 5. Home teams will be on the sidelines closest to the concession stands; whereas, away

teams will be furthest away from the concession stands. Fans MUST sit on the same side of the field as the team they are rooting for resides. Referees will not be allowed to start any games until both teams and their fans are on the appropriate sidelines.

6. Coaches/Players Area: Coaches and players NOT on the field must stay between the 10-

yard line markers on their sideline. 7. Only players or coaches may be within the team boundary markers during gameplay.

Unsportsmanlike penalties may be accessed once the game begins if fans are not observing this LSFA policy.

8. Down Marker & First Down Marker: The home team will supply 2 persons, one to run the

down marker and a 2nd to run the first down marker. Caches are not allowed to work the markers and coach at the same time.

Rosters

1. The home teams wear dark color jerseys. Visiting teams wear light color jerseys. 2. NUMBER OF PLAYERS: The maximum number of players on the field per team is seven (7),

and the minimum is five (5) players. There is no maximum number of players per team. The fall league is designed to be played 7 versus 7. EXCEPTION: For younger grades where the coach is the QB, the coach counts as one of the 7 players.

Timing & Overtime

1. Games consist of two 24-minute halves broken into four 12-minute quarters. Clock stops occur only for timeouts, penalty administration, injuries and during the last 2 minutes of each half (2nd and 4th quarters). During the last 2 minutes the game clock will be operated per normal NFHS rules.

2. TIMEOUTS: Each team is allowed two (2) timeouts per half. Timeouts will not carry over

into the second half. Timeouts will be one minute in length. 3. TIME OF THE GAME: The time for each quarter will be kept on the scoreboard. If the

scoreboard is unavailable, then the OFFICIAL will keep the game time. When game time is being kept by the official, they will be responsible for letting both teams know when there is 5 minutes and 2 minutes remaining in the quarter.

4. HALFTIME: There will be a halftime lasting five (5) minutes. 5. PLAY CLOCK The offensive team has 25 seconds in which to snap the ball once the referee

has spotted the ball. Officials will initiate an audible 5 second count after 20 seconds. Teams will receive one warning before a delay-of-game penalty is enforced. NOTE: Officials will be enforcing this tighter this season.

6. 5-Second Call: The referee will count from 1 to 5 aloud once the ball is snapped. The QB

will have 5 seconds in which to hand off or throw the ball. If the 5-second call occurs the play is ruled dead (at the previous spot).

7. Overtime: In the event the game is tied at the end of regulation, there will be ONE

overtime period following NFHS rules for Missouri, except for the ball being placed on the 10-yard line. Each team shall have ONE offensive possession to score. If the game is still tied after overtime, the game shall be considered a tie. The team which lost the opening coin toss will decide whether they will be on offense first or second during the overtime period. a. During a postseason situation, the game will continue until a winner is determined. Under this postseason scenario, after the 1st overtime, all teams must attempt a two (2) point conversion after scoring a touchdown. Teams will alternate starting first on offense following the first overtime period.

Scoring 1. 1.SCORING: When a touchdown occurs, the offensive team will receive 6 points. The

offense will be given 3 choices for point after touchdown (PAT): a. Attempt from the 5-yard line and be awarded 1 point if the PAT is successful. All

PATs originating from the 5-yard line must be a forward pass by the QB which crosses the line-of-scrimmage.

b. Attempt from the 10-yard line and be awarded 2 points if the PAT is successful. All legal NFL Flag plays may be run during a 2-pont attempt.

c. Interceptions on conversions cannot be returned. d. Attempt a field goal and be awarded 2 points if the PAT is successful. On field goal

attempts: i. Only the long snapper, holder and kicker will be on the field of play. The ball

will be spotted at the 3-yard line and the center will long-snap to the holder. A kick must be attempted, no fakes.

ii. The offense will be responsible to retrieve the kick and return the ball to the referee

iii. Field goals will be kicked towards the south field goal, except on the small fields. Those will be kicked in the offensive flow direction

iv. The kick must occur within 5 seconds after the ball is snapped 2. Safeties: If the defensive team causes a safety (the ball carrier is downed in the end zone,

runs out of the back of the endzone, or intentional grounding by the QB occurs in the end zone) the defense will be awarded 2 points. Additionally, the defensive team will transition to offense and start on their 5-yard line.

3. After one team is winning by 28 points or more, the game is over. Once a 28 point or more advantage is gained, no PAT will be attempted. The game will continue in scrimmage mode with a running clock for the remainder of the game.

4. Forfeits are scored 28-0 for the winning team. Coaches 1. Coaches are expected to adhere to LSFA FLAG philosophies, coaching guidelines, and code of

conduct.

2. Coaches are allowed on the field and to interact with play as outlined in the Grade League Rule Exceptions section.

3. Coaches are responsible to address the conduct of their sidelines and fans. If a coach requires

assistance with addressing their fans, then a field monitor or Executive Board member

should be requested to assist. Officials may issue 1 warning for unsportsmanlike conduct to a sideline coach or fans. Warnings will be communicated to the Head Coach and any further infractions will result in unsportsmanlike penalties and/or ejections. Note, a referee may decide to eject a fan or coach at any time, but an ejection will be mandated if a sideline obtains a third unsportsmanlike penalty within the same game.

4. Coaches SHOULD NOT directly interact with opposing coaches during the game. Questions or issues should always be conducted through the referee.

5. Coaches SHOULD limit their interactions with officials during games. Coaches ARE NOT

allowed to challenge any official ruling. Questions or clarifications on what a call was can be requested, but the original play shall stand as called and future play will not be interrupted. Any complaints about officiating may be communicated to the Executive Board in writing no earlier than the Monday after the game. Any attempt to intimidate, influence future calls, persistent complaining or other conduct unbecoming of a youth coach will result in unsportsmanlike penalties and/or ejections.

NOTE: Officials have been instructed to call unsportsmanlike penalties when negative interactions occur with coaches to curb poor behavior which has occurred in previous seasons.

6. Disputes are handled by the LSFA Executive Board and are not to be handled between

individual coaches. All disputes may be filed in writing following the Monday after a game (admin@lsfootball.org).

7. Coaches should never enter the field of play unless calling a timeout, tending to an injured

player or if requested by a referee 8. All teams will have a head coach and may have up to four (4) assistant coaches and (1)

statistician permitted in the coach’s box during a scheduled League game. All coaches shall have visible league provided badges confirming they are a league approved coach.

“NOTE: Statisticians do not require coaching credentials however, on game day, cannot reside in the coach/player box, nor participate in any “coaching” of players during gameplay.” 9. On-field Playbook Aides:

a. Coaches can bring playbook aides onto the field. Aides must always be in the possession of the coach (not placed on the field during play)

b. The only on-field playbook aide players may possess are wristbands 10. PLAYING TIME: It is the coach’s responsibility to allow each player to play as close to half of

the game time. Ideally, this is 8 minutes per half; but times could differ depending upon the number of players on a team. It is the head coach’s responsibility to ensure this is tracked. Playing time restrictions set by the coach on a player due to not attending 50% of the practices or other disciplinary reasons must be denoted on the tracking sheet as well as

communicated to the opposing head coach and head referee prior to the game. Failure to comply could lead to disciplinary action by the league.

11. PLAYER TARGETS: Each player on a team must be targeted as a receiver or ball carrier at

least ONCE per game. It is the head coach’s responsibility to ensure this is tracked. Failure to comply could lead to disciplinary action by the league.

NOTE: Quarterbacks are exempt from targets requirement, but must be designated on the tracker chart as QB for series 12. Tracking: To monitor the tracking requirements, coaches are required to chart participation

for their players. Players will be identified by names and/or numbers on the chart as well as which offensive and defensive series they participated in. When a target occurs to a player it will be clearly denoted and identifiable to someone reviewing the chart. At the end of the game, charts will be turned into the referee at the middle of the field or at the concession stand which will be turned into the league office.

a. For your convenience, copies of a suggested chart type have been included in your head coach packet as well as an example. Additionally, this chart will be reviewed with all coaches during the annual coaches’ meeting.

b. Extra charts will also be available at the concession stand on game days. c. FAILURE TO HAND IN A COMPLETED CHART AT THE END OF THE GAME MAY RESULT

IN A FORFEIT TO YOUR TEAM. A 28-0 SCORE WILL BE RECORDED IN THIS INSTANCE. Live Ball / Dead Ball 1.The snap must occur between the center’s legs and be received by the QB.

2. The official will indicate the neutral zone and line-of-scrimmage. a. It is an automatic dead

ball foul if any player on defense or offense enters the neutral zone. Regarding the neutral zone, the official may give both teams a “courtesy” neutral zone notification to allow their players to move back behind the line-of-scrimmage.

3. A player who gains possession in the air is considered inbounds if at least one foot comes

down in the field of play. 4. If a pass is intercepted, it is returnable by the defense. The team which made the

interception will begin on offense where the player who returned the interception is ruled down unless the play ends with the ball behind the defense’s own 5-yard line, then they may start their offensive possession at their 5-yard line.

5. The defense may not mimic the offensive team signals by trying to confuse the offensive

players while the quarterback is calling out signals to start the play. This will result in an unsportsmanlike conduct penalty.

6. Substitutions may be made on any dead ball. 7. Play is ruled “dead” when:

a. The ball hits the ground i. If the ball hits the ground because of a bad snap, the ball is not dead but must

be picked up by the QB for the play to resume. Note, the 5-second count continues to occur while the snap is on the ground.

ii. There are no fumbles. The ball is spotted where the ball carrier lost possession at the time of the fumble.

b. If a ball carrier loses possession of the ball and a defender catches the ball prior to the ball contacting the ground; the ball is spotted where the ball was at the time that possession was lost. Note, this rule should not be confused with a deflected or tipped pass where the ball carrier has not yet gained possession which would be ruled as an interception and is returnable.

c. The ball-carrier’s flag is pulled. d. The ball-carrier steps out of bounds. e. A touchdown, PAT or safety is scored. f. If any other part of a ball-carrier’s body other than the feet or hands contacts the

ground. g. The ball-carrier’s flag falls off. h. The receiver catches the ball with only one or no flag(s). The ball shall be spotted

where the receiver catches the ball. i. The 5-second call by the referee occurs. The ball shall be spotted at the previous spot. j. Inadvertent whistle.

NOTE: There are no fumbles. The ball is spotted where the ball was at when the fumble occurred 8. In the case of an inadvertent whistle, the offense has two options:

a. Take the ball where it was when the whistle blew, and the down is consumed. b. Replay the down from the original line-of-scrimmage.

Running 1. The ball is spotted where the ball was when the flag was pulled, not where the ball carrier’s

foot was.

2. The quarterback cannot directly run with the ball beyond the line-of-scrimmage; but, they can roll-out and/or scramble behind the line-of-scrimmage. The quarterback is the offensive player who receives the snap.

3. Only direct handoffs behind the line-of-scrimmage are permitted. Handoffs may be in front,

behind or to the side of the offensive player but must be behind the line-of-scrimmage. The offense may use multiple handoffs.

a. The QB may handoff to the center but it may not be done between the legs of the center.

4. Laterals are allowed; but, may only be conducted on the first exchange of the ball from a QB

to another player. Laterals cannot occur within a no-run zone or beyond the line of scrimmage.

5. No-run zones are located 5 yards before the end zone and first downs. These areas are

designed to avoid short-yardage power-running situations. Teams are not allowed to run in these zones. The only legal play in these zones is for the QB to conduct a forward pass which goes past the line-of-scrimmage. (Reminder: Each offensive team approaches only THREE no-run zones in each drive – _one 5 yards from each of the two first down markers and one 5 yards from the goal line to score a TD).

6. Any player who receives a handoff or a lateral may throw the ball from behind the line-of-

scrimmage if the play is not within a no-run zone. 7. Once the ball has been handed off in front, behind or to the side of the quarterback, all

eligible defensive players are eligible to rush. 8. Runners may not leave their feet to advance the ball. Diving, leaping, or jumping to avoid a

flag pull is considered flag guarding. 9. Spinning is allowed, but players cannot leave their feet to avoid a flag pull.

a. Players spinning out of control will be called for flag guarding. 10. Runners may leave their feet if there is a clear indication that he/she has done so to avoid

collision with another player without a flag guarding penalty enforced. 11. No blocking or “screening” is allowed at any time. 12. Offensive players without the ball must stop their motion once the ball has crossed the line-

of-scrimmage. No running with the ball-carrier. 13. Flag obstruction – _All jerseys MUST be tucked in before play begins. The flags must be on

the player’s hips and free from obstruction. Deliberately obstructed flags will be considered flag guarding.

Passing 1. All forward passes must be from behind the line-of-scrimmage. 2. The quarterback may throw the ball away to avoid a sack. The pass must go beyond the line-

of-scrimmage; otherwise, the quarterback will be ruled down at the spot the pass was thrown.

3. Shovel passes are allowed; but, must be received beyond the line-of-scrimmage in a no-run

zone.

4. The quarterback has a five-second “pass clock.” If a pass is not thrown within the five seconds, the play is dead, the down is consumed, and the ball is returned to the line of scrimmage. Once the ball is handed off or thrown, the 5-second rule is no longer in effect. At the end of the 5-second clock, the ball is returned to the line-of-scrimmage for the next play.

a. If the QB is standing in the end zone at the end of the 5-second clock, the ball is returned to the line of scrimmage (LOS).

Receiving 1. All players are eligible to receive passes (including the quarterback if the ball has been

handed off behind the line-of-scrimmage). Passes to the quarterback must occur beyond the line-of-scrimmage.

2. Only one player is allowed in motion at a time. All motion must be parallel to the line-of-

scrimmage and no motion is permitted toward the line-of-scrimmage. NOTE: A Shift towards the line of scrimmage is permitted but the player must completely reset for one second before the play begins.

3. A player must have at least one foot inbounds when making a reception.

4. In the case of simultaneous possession by both an offensive and defensive player, possession

is awarded to the offense. 5. Interceptions change the possession of the ball at the point of interception. Interceptions are

the only changes of possession that do not start on the 5-yard line. 6. Interceptions are returnable but not on conversions after touchdowns.

Rushing the Passer 1. The referee will position approximately 10 yards from the line-of-scrimmage and directly

across from the center prior to the start of play.

2. To be eligible to rush the passer prior to the quarterback releasing the ball: a. Up to seven (7) players may rush the passer. b. The rush defender’s front foot must be behind the referee. c. The rush defender must be stationary when the ball is snapped. d. A stationary player lining up behind the referee does not have to rush, but is eligible.

EXCEPTION: No rushing the passer at K/1 and 2nd grade. A legal rush is: 1. Any rush directly towards the line of scrimmage by an eligible rusher from 10 yards behind

the line of scrimmage 2. A rush from anywhere on the field AFTER the ball has been released by the quarterback. 3. If an eligible rusher leaves the rush spot early (breaks the 10-yard area), they may return to

the rush depth, reset, and then legally rush the quarterback. 4. If an eligible rusher leaves the rush depth early and the ball is handed off or thrown before

he/she crosses the line-of-scrimmage, he/she may legally continue to rush. ii. A penalty may be called if:

1. The rusher leaves the rush depth before the snap and crosses the line-of-scrimmage before a handoff or pass – _illegal rush (5 yards from the line-of-scrimmage and replay of down).

2. Any defensive player crosses the line-of-scrimmage before the ball is snapped – offsides (5 yards from line-of-scrimmage and replay of down).

3. Any defensive player not lined up 10 yard off of the LOS crosses the line-of-scrimmage before the ball is passed or handed off – illegal rush (5 yards from the line-of-scrimmage and replay of down).

5. A safety is awarded if the sack takes place in the offensive team’s end zone. 6. Teams are not required to rush the quarterback 7. Players not rushing the quarterback can defend on the line-of-scrimmage. 8. Once the ball is released by the quarterback, the ten-yard rush rule no longer is in effect and

all defenders may cross the line-of-scrimmage.

9. Players rushing the quarterback may attempt to block a pass; however, NO contact can be made with the quarterback in any way. Blocking the pass or attempting to block the pass and then contacting the passer will result in a roughing the passer penalty.

10. The offense cannot impede the rusher in any way. The rusher has the right to a clear

straight path to the line-of-scrimmage. If the “path or line” is occupied by a moving offensive player, then it is the offense’s responsibility to avoid the rusher. Any disruption to the rusher’s path and/or contact will result in an impeding the rusher penalty. If the offensive player does not move after the snap, then it is the rusher’s responsibility to go around the offensive player and to avoid contact.

11. A sack occurs if the quarterback’s flags are pulled behind the line-of-scrimmage or if

intentional grounding occurs. The ball is placed where the ball was when the flag was pulled or when the intentional grounding occurred.

a. A safety is awarded if the sack takes place in the offensive team’s end zone. Flag Pulling 1. A legal flag pull takes place when the ball-carrier is in full possession of the ball.

2. Defenders can dive from the front or the side only to pull flags (no diving from behind).

3. Defenders cannot tackle, hold, or run through the ball-carrier when pulling flags.

4. If a defender inadvertently grabs a jersey or other item while attempting to pull a flag AND immediately releases this item then no foul has occurred; however, if the defender does not immediately release this item and causes an advantage to occur to the defender the defensive holding will be called.

5. It is illegal to attempt to strip or pull the ball from the ball-carrier’s possession at any time.

6. If a player’s flag inadvertently falls off during the play, the player is down immediately upon possession of the ball and the play ends. The ball is placed where the flag lands.

7. A defensive player may not intentionally pull the flags off a player who is not in possession of the ball.

8. Flag guarding is an attempt by the ball-carrier to obstruct the defender’s access to the flags by stiff arming, dropping the head, hand, arm or shoulder or intentionally covering the flags with the football jersey.

Formations 1. Offenses must have a minimum of one player on the line-of-scrimmage (the center) and up

to six players on the line-of-scrimmage. The quarterback must be off the line-of-scrimmage. a. One player at a time may go in motion 1-yard behind and parallel to the line-of-

scrimmage. b. No motion is allowed toward the line-of-scrimmage. c. If a player shifts prior to the snap of the ball they must be set for one second prior to

the snap occurring. 2. The center must snap the ball with a rapid and continuous motion between his/her legs to

the quarterback, and the ball must completely leave his/her hands. Unsportsmanlike Conduct

1. If the field monitor or referee witness any acts of intentional tackling, elbowing, cheap shots, blocking, fighting, aggressive behavior or language which may prevoke fighting, any physical contact not attributed to game play or any unsportsmanlike act, the game will be stopped, and the player, coach or fan will be ejected from the game. The decision is made at the referee or field monitor’s discretion. No appeals will be considered. FOUL PLAY, LANGUAGE OR ACTIONS WILL NOT BE TOLERATED!

2. Offensive or confrontational language is not allowed. Officials have the right to determine what constitutes offensive or confrontational language. If offensive or confrontational language occurs, the referee will determine severity at their discretion and either give one warning or eject the coach or player.

3. Players, coaches or spectators may not physically or verbally abuse any opponent, coach, official or spectator

4. Coaches may NOT encourage players to “RUN THROUGH” an opposing player. This may result in an unsportsmanlike conduct penalty.

5. Ball-carriers MUST make an effort to avoid defenders with an established position. 6. Defenders are not allowed to run through the ball-carrier when pulling flags. 7. Fans must also adhere to good sportsmanship as well:

a. Yell to cheer on your players, not to harass officials or other teams. b. Keep comments clean and profanity free. c. Compliment ALL players, not just one child or team. d. Fans not adhering to the LSFA code of conduct may be ejected from the game

8. Fans are required to keep fields safe and kids friendly: a. Keep younger kids and equipment such as coolers, chairs and tents a minimum

of 10 yards off the field in the end zone area. b. Dispose of ALL trash in designated trash cans.

c. Sit on the side of the field their team is located 2. Unsportsmanlike conduct penalties:

a. Defense + 10 yards from line of scrimmage and automatic first down b. Offense - 10 yards from line of scrimmage and loss of down

3. Ejections: All ejections incur a minimum of a 2-game suspension. If the ejection occurs during a game than that game will count 1 game towards the suspension regardless of which quarter the issue occurred. The second and/or additional suspension games will occur on the next regularly scheduled games. During suspensions, the player, coach or fan is not allowed to be on LSFA premises. When an ejection occurs, the player, coach or fan must leave the LSFA premises immediately.

Penalties I. General

1. The referee will call all penalties. 2. Referees determine incidental contact that may result from normal run of play. 3. All penalties will be assessed from the line-of-scrimmage, except spot fouls. 4. Only the team captain or head coach may ask the referee questions about rule clarification

and interpretations. Players may not question calls. 5. Games may not end on a defensive penalty unless the offense declines it. 6. Penalties are assessed live ball then dead ball. Live ball penalties must be assessed before

play is considered complete. 7. Penalties will be assessed half the distance to the goal line when the penalty yardage is

more than half the distance to the goal.

Defensive spot fouls Defensive pass interference +10 yards and automatic first down Holding +10 yards from spot of the foul Stripping +10 yards from spot of the foul i. Offensive spot fouls Screening, blocking, or running with the ball carrier

-10 yards from spot of the foul

Charging -10 yards from spot of the foul Flag guarding -10 yards from spot of the foul ii. Defensive penalties Defensive unnecessary roughness +10 yards and automatic first down Defensive Unsportsmanlike conduct

+10 yards and automatic first down

Offside +5 yards from line-of-scrimmage Illegal rush (Starting rush from inside 10-yard marker)

+5 yards from line-of-scrimmage

Illegal flag pull (Before the receiver has the ball)

+5 yards from line-of-scrimmage

Roughing the passer +10 yards from line-of-scrimmage Taunting +5 yards from line-of-scrimmage ii. Offensive penalties Offensive unnecessary roughness -10 yards and loss of down

Grade League Rule Exceptions To assist the grade divisions with successful gameplay and the enhancement of critical skills, the following rules have been adopted during the spring season: Quarterback Play: K/1st Grade Division:

1. The quarterback in the K/1st grade division will be a coach of the team. a. The Coach/QB may be in “shot-gun” formation or directly under center. b. The Coach/QB IS NOT permitted to move with the ball other than to take 2-3

steps to support a handoff or to make a pass ( pitch option offenses or rolling out are not allowed)

The Coach/QB IS NOT allowed to stand and hold the ball for delayed a handoff or intentionally conceal the ball from the defense (no huddle of players with the Coach/QB conducting a secret handoff, the Coach/QB cannot turn their back to the defense to conceal the ball, etc. . A fluid movement to hand the ball off is allowed.

a. Once the Coach/QB has passed/handed the ball to a player, the Coach/QB may

not touch the ball again. b. The Coach/QB is restricted to throw passes 20 yards or shorter. Balls thrown

farther than 20 yards will be ruled incomplete regardless if they were caught. c. Only six (6) eligible receivers are allowed on offense with a Coach/QB

2nd Grade – 7th Grade Divisions: QB play will be conducted by a player. The QB is allowed to move behind the line of scrimmage after the snap; but, is not allowed to advance the ball past the line of scrimmage as a runner.

K/1st Grade 1. Up to 2 coaches can be on the field to assist their team on offense and one coach on defense.

a. On field coaches must be 10 yards behind their deepest player prior to the ball being snapped (exception allowed for the Coach/QB in the K/1st grade, however, this Coach QB must remove themselves from the field of play in a backward motion once the pass or handoff is complete).

b. On field coaches MUST REMAIN SILENT and/or REFRAIN FROM MAKING GESTURES to influence play once the quarterback starts the cadence (note, coaches on the sideline can communicate and make gestures to players on the field). Examples of on field coach infractions include; but, are not limited to:

i. Directing a player through pointing ii. Communicating: “run”, “wrong way”, “throw to Tommy”, “no”, “yes”, etc.

to a player after the offensive cadence has begun 2nd Grade Division: 1. Up to 1 coach can be on the field to assist their team on offense.

a. On field coaches must be 10 yards behind their deepest player prior to the ball being snapped.

b. On field coaches MUST REMAIN SILENT and/or REFRAIN FROM MAKING GESTURES to influence play once the quarterback starts the cadence (note, coaches on the sideline can communicate and make gestures to players on the field). Examples of on field coach infractions include; but, are not limited to:

i. Directing a player through pointing ii. Communicating: “run”, “wrong way”, “throw to Tommy”, “no”, “yes”, etc.

to a player after the offensive cadence has begun 2. No coaches will be on the field on defense.

3rd Grade – 7th Grade Divisions: Coaches are restricted to the sidelines between and during game play (exceptions include timeout periods, to tend to injury, to assist with equipment issues and as directed by the referee). Rushing the passer: K/1st & 2nd Grade Divisions: No rushing the passer. 3rd – 7th Grade Divisions: No exceptions.

Running Plays: Definition: A running play is any play that does NOT have a forward pass that crosses the line-of-scrimmage in the air K/1st – 7th Grade Divisions: Teams may advance the ball with a running play. Running plays are allowed on any down, except for when the ball is within 5-yards of a 1st down or end zone (NO RUN ZONE). Point After Touchdowns (PATs): K/1st - Teams can elect to do a pass only play from the 5-yard line or a pass or run play from the 10-yard line. 2nd - 7th Grade Divisions: Teams can elect to do a pass only play from the 5-yard line, a pass or run play from the 10-yard line or a field goal snapped from the 3-yard line. Coach QB 2 On Field

Coaches Rushing the Passer

Running Plays PATs

K/1st Grade YES 2 coaches on offense and 1 on defense.

NO YES Run, Pass

2nd Grade NO 1 coach on offense on none on defense

NO YES Run, Pass or FG

3rd Grade NO NO YES YES Run, Pass or FG

4th grade NO NO YES YES Run, Pass or FG

5th Grade NO NO YES YES Run, Pass or FG

6th Grade NO NO YES YES Run, Pass or FG

7th Grade NO NO YES YES Run, Pass or FG