Mastering The CFL: Your Essential Guide

A Different Ball Game: The Basics of CFL

First things first, we need to understand that while the CFL and NFL share a common ancestor, they’ve developed some distinct differences over the years. The CFL field is a whopping 110 yards long and 65 yards wide, compared to the NFL’s 100 by 53 1/3. Plus, the CFL field has ‘end zones’ that are 20 yards deep – a whole 10 yards more than the NFL. That’s like adding an extra chunk of a basketball court at each end!

In addition, a CFL game starts with a kickoff just like in the NFL, but here’s the twist – the team that kicks off also gets a single point if the ball goes out of bounds in the opposing team’s end zone. This rule, called a “rouge,” is one of the unique aspects of CFL play.

Another big difference lies in the number of downs. While NFL gives teams four attempts to advance the ball 10 yards, the CFL only offers three downs. This seemingly small change drastically influences the strategies of the game.

CFL teams lean heavily on passing rather than rushing, aiming to cover more ground with each play. Imagine playing chess but you only have three moves to capture a piece instead of four. It requires more strategic planning and daring moves, doesn’t it?

When it comes to scoring, the CFL follows the traditional touchdown (6 points), field goal (3 points), and safety touch (2 points) seen in American football. However, there’s an extra point in CFL: the already mentioned rouge, or single point, adding a unique twist to the game.

In conclusion, the Canadian Football League offers a refreshing twist on the football we know and love. It’s got all the hard hits, strategic plays, and adrenaline-pumping moments, but with a few key differences that set it apart. Whether it’s the larger playing field, the unique scoring opportunities, or the reduced downs, CFL definitely brings a whole new set of rules to the game.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. How many players are there in a CFL team on the field?

A CFL team has 12 players on the field at a time, one more than the NFL.

2. How long is a CFL game?

A CFL game is approximately 2.5 to 3 hours long, similar to the NFL. It consists of four 15-minute quarters.

3. What is a ‘rouge’ in CFL?

A ‘rouge’ or single point is awarded in the CFL if the team that kicks off manages to get the ball out of bounds in the opposing team’s end zone.

4. Why do CFL teams have only three downs?

The rule of three downs in the CFL leads to a more pass-oriented game, increasing the pace and making the game more exciting to watch.

5. Are the balls used in CFL and NFL the same?

No, the balls in the CFL are slightly larger and have different markings compared to those in the NFL.