Major Flag Football – Official Rulebook

Major Flag Football

Official Rulebook

Youth Flag • Community First • Skill Development

Our Philosophy

Flag football is a great space to learn core skills—throwing, catching, route running, spacing, and pursuit—while building teamwork and confidence.

Our rules are intentionally simple so coaches, players, and officials can focus on reps, learning, and fun.

Officials are encouraged to let the kids play and step in for clear, obvious violations. The goal is a positive experience and steady development for every team.

Divisions

Younger League

  • Format: 7-on-7
  • Coach serves as the quarterback (counts as the 7th player)
  • No defensive coaches on the field during the play
  • Teaching emphasis: alignment, routes, flags, sportsmanship

Older League

  • Format: 6-on-6
  • Player quarterback (coach on the sideline)
  • Intro to more structure: concepts, reads, and spacing

Field Setup & Possession

Starting Field Position

Offense starts at its own 5-yard line.

Down & Distance

  • 4 plays to cross midfield for a first down
  • Then 4 plays to score a touchdown

Turnovers

Turnover on downs: Opponent takes over at its own 5-yard line.

Interception: Spotted where the defender’s flag is pulled (no returns).

Scoring

Touchdowns & Tries

Touchdown = 6
  • 1-point try from the 5-yard line
  • 2-point try from the 10-yard line

Overtime

  • Each team receives 4 plays from midfield
  • After a touchdown, teams must go for 2
  • Repeat rounds until a winner is determined

Offensive Rules

Quarterback

QB may not run past the line of scrimmage.

Younger League: the coach serves as QB.

Older League: a player serves as QB; coaches remain on the sideline.

Snapping & Motion

  • Traditional football snap is encouraged
  • Only one player may be in motion at the snap
  • All players must be set before the snap

No-Run Zones

Middle 10 yards (midfield zone) — must pass

Within 5 yards of the end zone — must pass

Eligible Receivers

  • Center is an eligible receiver once they release
  • All standard skill positions are eligible

Allowed Plays

  • Forward passes
  • Handoffs and pitches
  • Conventional football concepts (no blocking)

Defensive Rules

Pass Rush

  • Only one rusher may cross the line of scrimmage each play
  • Rusher raises a hand pre-snap to indicate intent

Pre-Snap Alignment

All defenders begin at least 7 yards off the line of scrimmage.

Coach Involvement

  • No defensive coaches on the field during the play
  • Coaches may help with pre-snap organization, then step out immediately

Penalties & Infractions

Common Infractions

  • Blocking or screening
  • Tackling or excessive contact
  • Offside / false start
  • Pass interference (offensive or defensive)
  • Flag guarding

Fumbles

Dead ball at the spot. Loss of down.

Penalty Yardage

Standard: 5 yards

Coach and referee discretion:

  • Replay the down or
  • Loss of down (on offense) / automatic first down (on defense), if needed to keep the game moving

Major Flag Football League

Tanner Park • Saturday Game Days

Developing skills, building character, having fun!