American football originated in the 19th century, tracing some of its roots back to traditional football (soccer) and rugby. The game features passing, kicking, and running with an oval-shaped ball on a 100-yard field. Despite debates about its exact beginnings, what’s clear is its immense popularity, establishing itself as a beloved pastime in the United States. Many players begin at school or college level, eventually advancing to professional leagues such as the National Football League (NFL).
The sport’s reach is tremendous; the 2021 NFL season opener alone captivated an audience of 26 million viewers. But before diving into the game, it’s essential to know the typical schedule of matches. The NFL organizes games primarily on Thursday nights (known as Thursday Night Football), Sunday, and Monday nights. In other regions, particularly Europe, these games can air in the early hours due to time zone differences.
Understanding the NFL Schedule
The NFL has a structured weekly schedule, with Thursday Night Football kicking off the action (early Friday morning for European audiences). Friday and Saturday are game-free, leading up to a full lineup on Sunday. Sunday matches typically begin at 6 PM, with additional games at 9:05 PM and 9:25 PM. The week concludes with a Monday night game, which usually starts in the early hours of Tuesday for fans in different time zones.
The gaps in the schedule might feel unusual to new fans, but it’s something most eventually get accustomed to. Now, let’s explore what makes up a typical NFL season.
The Structure of an NFL Season
The NFL season starts with the preseason, historically comprising four exhibition matches. These games offer teams a chance to evaluate backup players and finalize their rosters. However, the preseason has now been shortened to three games, with the fourth week reserved for teams to rest.
Once rosters are set, the regular season begins. Previously, the regular season consisted of 17 games and a bye week. It’s now expanded to 18 games, still including a bye week where teams can take a break or focus on extra practice. The performance during these regular-season games is crucial as it determines whether teams qualify for the playoffs.
The playoffs feature the top seven teams from each conference. The team with the best record in each conference gets a bye for the first round, while the other six compete in the Wild Card Round. The subsequent rounds—Divisional and Conference Championships—whittle down the teams until only two remain to face off in the grand finale, the Super Bowl. The Super Bowl, one of the world’s most-watched sporting events, awards the victorious team with the Lombardi Trophy and custom diamond rings celebrating their achievement.
The Basics of How the Game Is Played
An NFL game involves two opposing sides: offense and defense. The offensive team includes the quarterback, offensive line, running back, tight end, and wide receivers. The quarterback’s role is to throw the ball, while the offensive line protects the quarterback and running back. The running back rushes the ball, and the receivers and tight ends catch passes. The main objective is to score points, either through field goals (worth three points) or by getting the ball into the end zone for six points, plus an additional point for a successful kick.
On the other side, the defense aims to prevent the offense from scoring. A typical defensive lineup includes three linebackers, a defensive line, two safeties, and cornerbacks. The defensive line opposes the offensive line, linebackers cover the middle, while safeties and cornerbacks guard the field’s deeper and wider areas.
When the offense begins its drive, they aim to score by advancing down the field. The team starts with a “first and ten” situation, meaning they need to gain ten yards to earn another set of downs. Teams usually punt on fourth down, sending the ball to the other team’s end to make it harder for them to score. However, they might attempt to convert if they believe they can gain the required yards.
Turnovers are another way possession changes hands. The most common turnover is an interception, where a defensive player catches a pass intended for an offensive receiver. Another is a fumble, where a player loses control of the ball. When this happens, any player on the field can recover the ball, and possession resumes from where they gained control.
Safeties are less common but can occur when an offensive player is tackled in their own end zone, awarding the opposing team two points and possession of the ball. It’s a momentum-changing event that can demoralize a team fighting to stay in the game.
Why You Should Tune In
American football offers a thrilling viewing experience, with teams pushing each other to their limits. The intensity of the seasons and the competitive nature of the sport create a captivating atmosphere for fans. It’s not just an American phenomenon; the sport’s popularity has expanded into Europe, including the UK, where local bars frequently show live matches.
If you have some free time on a Sunday, it’s worth watching a game. Even without live TV access, highlight shows on networks like the BBC provide ample opportunities to catch up.
Conclusion
American football and the NFL present a dynamic and engaging experience, blending strategy, skill, and athleticism. The structured weekly schedule and the high stakes of each match make every game significant, drawing millions of viewers globally. The NFL’s growth beyond the U.S., especially in Europe, reflects the sport’s universal appeal. Watching a match, even as a casual observer, offers insight into the excitement and drama that have made the NFL a dominant force in sports entertainment. With accessible coverage, fans anywhere can get involved and feel the energy of this incredible sport.
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