American Football

Who Invented American Football?

A wide range of claims have been laid on where the first American football game took place, who its participants were and how the game panned out. It is accepted that football has its roots dug snugly into the English sport of rugby and its conception took place in the early 1800’s. While some say that the first American football game took place between varying universities on the East Coast of the United States—since this was the only geographic location of academic institutions in America at the time—others claim that since both football and soccer have their roots in rugby, these games were actually what would become modern-day soccer. It is rumored and accepted by some that the first ever game took place between Rutgers and Princeton University in 1869 and others believe that the premier game was held in 1875 between Harvard and Tufts University. Either may be true, but in the early twenty-first century, schools began standardizing the rules to this new game and started programs to encourage the participation of its students.

Interesting Facts about American Football

There are many fun facts about the game of American Football. Here are just a few of the most interesting:

*All footballs are eleven inches long
*The first footballs ever used were completely round, not egg-shaped like modern balls
*A football weighs between 14 and 15 ounces
*Players are assigned numbers based on the positions they play; i.e. 1-19 for quarterbacks and kickers, 20-49 for running and defensive backs, 50-59 for centers and linebackers, 60-79 for linemen and 80-89 for wide receivers and tight ends
* Only the kickers and punters are allowed to use their feet to move the ball
* Quarterbacks start every play

American Football Culture

American football is one of the top three most-watched and played sports in the United States. Throughout the country, boys as young as elementary school age play the sport and programs are regimented throughout junior high, high schools, college and on to the National Football League. For most young men, the football season can last year round, with conditioning and weight lifting beginning just as soon as the last game of the regular season comes to a close. Football is widely regarded as a favorite pastime throughout America and media coverage on games of every variety is extensive. For many players, coaches and fans, football is not just a game; it is a way of life.