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Football TipsOverview
Two-hand touch football is a version of American football that can be played by as few as three players. The rules of two-hand touch football differ greatly from tackle football, with the most obvious being the method of "tackling" an opponent. Two-hand touch football should be predicated on the passing game, with no running plays involved. The key to having an argument-free game of two-hand touch is to set the rules beforehand and be sure that everyone understands them.
How to Play Two-Hand Touch Football
Step 1
Divide the players evenly, focusing on the fact that both teams need a capable quarterback who can accurately pass the football. Attempt to make both sides equally athletic to avoid a game that can quickly turn into a rout. Flip a coin to see which team starts with the ball, which should be placed at the 20-yard line to begin a drive.
Step 2
Determine if there will be first downs or if a team simply must score within four plays. Kickoffs and punts in a game of two-hand touch are the plays that can lead to injuries, so they should be eliminated. If the game is being played on a marked-off football field, then first downs can be built into the rules. Most games of two-hand touch occur on a recreational field or a backyard, making it prudent to either eliminate first downs altogether and give a team four plays to score or institute a rule that states three completed passes in a row constitute a first down.
Step 3
Set the rules regarding rushing the quarterback. If there is a large number of players on each team, the defense should be able to freely rush the passer with no restrictions. But if the sides are more along the lines of five on five or fewer, then every offensive player except for the quarterback should go out on pass routes, with just one defender allowed to pressure the quarterback after a certain amount of time (usually three seconds).
Step 4
Make certain everyone understands that to tackle a player with the ball, he or she must be touched with two hands at the same time. Touch a ball carrier with the fingertips or palms but do not push the player and cause him to lose balance. Agree beforehand that a "tackler" will be taken at his word on whether or not both hands touched the offensive player, so as to avoid arguments.
Step 5
Turn the ball over to the defensive side if your team cannot score within four plays or pick up a first down. Give them the ball at what would be the equivalent of their 20-yard line.
Step 6
Count touchdowns as six points. Since there is no kicking involved in two-hand touch football, the decision can be made to eliminate the conversion altogether. However, if desired, a conversion worth one point can be attempted by the team that scored. That team has one play to score from the opponent's two-yard line, similar to a two-point conversion try in the National Football League, except that running the ball into the end zone is not an option. The conversion point must be attained by passing. Set a time limit on the game or play to a predetermined number of points.
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