Games last 60 minutes, divided into four 15-minute quarters. If the score is tied at the end, the game goes into overtime. In the regular season, overtime lasts 10 minutes, but in the playoffs, both teams get a chance to possess the ball before sudden death rules apply.

The field is 100 yards long with 10-yard end zones at each end where teams score touchdowns. Each team has 11 players on the field at a time, with offense trying to score and defense trying to stop them. Special teams take the field for kickoffs, punts, and field goals.

The main objective is to move the ball down the field and score points. Teams get four attempts, called downs, to advance at least 10 yards. If they succeed, the downs reset. If they fail, the ball is turned over to the other team.

Scoring works like this: a touchdown is worth 6 points and happens when the ball crosses into the opponent’s end zone. After a touchdown, teams can kick an extra point or try a two-point conversion. Field goals are worth 3 points and safeties, scored by tackling an opponent in their own end zone, are worth 2 points.