How We Play
The NFL FLAG Rulebook
Neighborhood Sports plays official 5-on-5 NFL FLAG — fast, non-contact, and easy to learn. Here's a parent-and-player friendly rundown of how the game works.
Format
5 v 5
Contact
None
Halves
2 × 20 min
Field
30 × 70 yd
The Basics
- Two teams of five players each are on the field at a time.
- Games are typically played on a 30 × 70-yard field split into two 25-yard zones and midfield-to-end-zone segments.
- Games run two halves; the clock and exact timing may vary by age division.
- The offense has a set number of downs to advance past midfield, then to score.
Scoring
- Touchdown: 6 points.
- Extra point: 1 point (from the 5-yard line) or 2 points (from the 10-yard line).
- Safety: 2 points for the defense.
- Interceptions can be returned, and in some formats returned for scores.
Moving The Ball
- Every player is eligible to catch a pass.
- The quarterback cannot run the ball across the line of scrimmage — all plays start with a pass.
- No handoffs downfield in most divisions; ball advances by passing and running after the catch.
- A “rush” defender must line up a set distance off the ball before rushing the quarterback.
Pulling The Flag
- A ball-carrier is “down” when a defender pulls one of their flags — no tackling.
- Players wear a belt with flags on each hip; flags must hang freely at the snap.
- Defenders may not hold, push, or bump the ball-carrier to pull a flag.
- Flag guarding (blocking a defender from your flags) is a penalty.
Keeping It Safe
- No contact: no blocking, tackling, screening, or diving.
- No stiff-arming and no jumping or hurdling to avoid a defender.
- Cleats (non-metal) and mouthguards may be required by division.
- Trained referees officiate every game and enforce all safety rules.
Sportsmanship
- Fun while competing is the #1 goal — respect for teammates, opponents, and officials comes first.
- Coaches keep every player involved and developing.
- Unsportsmanlike conduct results in penalties and, if needed, removal.
- Win or lose, we shake hands and celebrate the game.
Non-Contact, By Design
NFL FLAG is a no-contact game. There is no tackling, no blocking, and no diving to pull a flag. Trained referees officiate every game and enforce the rules that keep our players safe — so kids can learn real football skills in a fun, low-risk environment. This page is a summary; the official NFL FLAG rulebook governs all league play, and specific rules may be adjusted by age division and season.
Ready To Take The Field?
Now that you know the game, grab a spot for the next season.