With flag football rising in popularity, many players are wondering if they can use their favorite football moves in the game. One of those moves is the stiff arm, a maneuver used by offensive players to fend off defenders while running after the ball. So, can you use a stiff arm in flag football?
The answer is no. Flag football is a non-contact sport, so stiff arms and any other form of physical contact are not allowed. This doesn’t mean players can’t be creative with their moves – they just have to abide by the rules. Some great alternatives that can help offensive players gain some extra yardage include juking, cutting, and pumping their arms to break away from defenders.
What Happens If You Stiff Arm in Flag Football?
Stiff arming is strictly prohibited in flag football, so if a player attempts it, they will be penalized according to the specific rules of the league they are playing in. Depending on the severity of the infraction, referees may call anything from an illegal contact penalty to an ejection from the game. All in all, stiff-arming is considered unsportsmanlike conduct.
In addition, players should be aware that some leagues may have stricter rules regarding contact than others, so it is important to familiarize yourself with the specific regulations of your league before taking the field.
How Can You Avoid Contact in Flag Football?
The key to avoiding contact in flag football is learning how to move without getting too close to opponents. Quickly changing direction and running toward open space are some of the best ways to stay away from defenders. Remember, flag football is all about agility and deception – out-thinking your opponents is part of the fun.
Similarly, being aware of where other players are on the field is also a fantastic way to avoid contact. Knowing when it is safe to cut or make a move can help you stay away from defenders and avoid physical contact. With a 7-on-7 flag football defensive playbook, you’ll learn what plays you’re likely to face in this growing sport.
How Else Does Flag Football Differ From Traditional Football?
Aside from the lack of physical contact, flag football differs from traditional football in many ways. First, there are fewer players on the field – while a standard game of tackle football involves 11 players per team, flag football features only seven (although this can range from five to eight!).
Second, with no blocking or tackling allowed in flag football, teams often rely on speed and agility to score points. Lastly, games usually last for a shorter amount of time – yet, rules can change from one organization to another.
Summary
Players should remember that stiff-arming is not allowed in flag football due to the lack of physical contact. However, there are still lots of exciting ways to move around defenders without having to resort to contact – juking, cutting and pumping your arms are just some of the moves that can help you gain yardage. It is also important to familiarize yourself with your league’s rules and regulations, as these may vary from one organization to another. With technique, speed and agility being key components in flag football, players can still experience an exciting game without having to resort to physical contact!
