Rules
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Official gameplay structure, scoring, timing, and rule updates
Game Structure
- 11 players per team on the field
- Four 15‑minute quarters
- 12‑minute halftime
- 40‑second play clock (25 seconds after administrative stoppages)
- Chain crew measures 10 yards for a new set of downs
Field Layout
- 100‑yard field with two 10‑yard end zones
- Hash marks are closer together than CFL (70’9” apart)
- Goalposts at the back of the end zone
Downs System
- Offense has 4 downs to gain 10 yards
- Failure to gain 10 yards results in a punt or turnover on downs
- Chains reset after a successful gain of 10 yards
Scoring
- Touchdown: 6 points
- Extra Point Kick: 1 point (from the 15‑yard line)
- Two‑Point Conversion: 2 points (from the 2‑yard line)
- Field Goal: 3 points
- Safety: 2 points
Kickoffs & Punts
- Kickoffs use the new 2024 formation (return team lined up at their 35)
- Touchbacks go to the 30‑yard line under new rules
- Punts that go into the end zone come out to the 20
Overtime Rules
Regular Season
- 10‑minute overtime period
- Both teams guaranteed one possession
- Game may end in a tie
Playoffs
- Both teams must possess the ball
- Multiple overtime periods until a winner is decided
Penalties
- 5‑yard, 10‑yard, and 15‑yard penalties depending on infraction
- Automatic first downs for certain defensive fouls
- Spot fouls for pass interference
Recent Rule Changes
- Kickoff overhaul made permanent
- Expanded replay assistance for objective calls
- Onside kick declaration rule added
- Touchback and dead‑ball spot updates