IN AMERICAN AND CANADIAN FOOTBALL, the object of the game is to get the ball across the opponent’s goal line, either by passing or carrying it across (a touchdown), or by kicking it between their goalposts (a field goal). An American football team has 11 players on the field at a time, although up to 40 players can appear for each side in a single game. The agile “offense” tries to score points, and the heavy hitting “defense” holds back the opposition. When in possession of the ball, a team has four chances (“downs”), to move it at least ten yards (nine meters) up the field to make a “first down.” The opposition gains possession if they fail, or by tackling and intercepting the ball. Canadian football is played on a larger field, with 12 men on each side. A team has only three chances to achieve a first down. Otherwise, the game is very similar to American football. Helmets, face masks, and layers of body padding are worn by the players for protection
IN AMERICAN AND CANADIAN FOOTBALL, the object of the game is to get the ball across the opponent’s goal line, either by passing or carrying it across (a touchdown), or by kicking it between their goalposts (a field goal). An American football team has 11 players on the field at a time, although up to 40 players can appear for each side in a single game. The agile “offense” tries to score points, and the heavy hitting “defense” holds back the opposition. When in possession of the ball, a team has four chances (“downs”), to move it at least ten yards (nine meters) up the field to make a “first down.” The opposition gains possession if they fail, or by tackling and intercepting the ball. Canadian football is played on a larger field, with 12 men on each side. A team has only three chances to achieve a first down. Otherwise, the game is very similar to American football. Helmets, face masks, and layers of body padding are worn by the players for protection
