Football is a team sport that focuses on advancing the ball through the end zone. A touchdown nets 6 points for a team, and a field goal nets an additional point. In addition, teams may try to score two extra points by running into the end zone. The players on the defense are trying to keep the offense from reaching the end zone, while the players on the offense are trying to get the ball into the end zone.
Modern football’s origins are rooted in the industrialization of Victorian Britain, where the growing working class sought new forms of recreation. With Saturday afternoons becoming more flexible, many workers found themselves with spare time. In order to pass the time, many of them began playing a new sport – football! Several key urban institutions began organizing working class football teams.
The scoring system in football includes a safety, which is equivalent to a conversion in rugby. A safety is scored when the offensive player is tackled in the end zone or fumbles the ball out of bounds. A safety can also occur when an offensive player intentionally grounds in the opposing end zone. A touchdown can also be scored with a field goal, a kick through the goal post, or a two-point conversion.
The defensive line plays an important role in the game. They are big, fast, and strong, and their main purpose is to rush the passer. They also cover the wide receivers and help the linebackers. The safety is another important position on the defensive line. Its role is to prevent big plays and to protect the quarterback from big hits.
In 1892, William “Pudge” Heffelfinger, a Pittsburgher, signed a $500 contract to play in a game with the Allegheny Athletic Association. The game soon became professional, and two years later, the Pittsburgh Athletic Club formed the first professional football league. It later became a yearly event and gained a nationwide following. In the 1920s, football ranked second only to baseball in terms of popularity among team sports.
Professional football games are widely watched in the United States. Teams typically play once a week, and the game is physically demanding. Players need several days off between games. The Super Bowl is an example of a major game that non-football fans might also tune into. Many companies use the Super Bowl to launch new commercials for their products.
During the first quarter, teams are given four downs, and they must move the football at least 10 yards to get a first down. Attempts to advance the ball past the end zone are rewarded with a touchdown. The team that fails to advance the ball beyond this point is forced to punt. If the team manages to advance the ball, the next player on offense has a chance to score a touchdown.
The secondary defense is the last line of defense, and it consists of at least three defensive backs. Cornerbacks and safeties cover the receivers and attempt to prevent completions. They may also rush the quarterback.