Jr Skyland Football Conference (JSFC) 2014 PATRIOT Division Football Rules For Varsity, JV, Peewee, Flag Levels

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1 Jr Skyland Football Conference (JSFC) 2014 PATRIOT Division Football Rules For Varsity, JV, Peewee, Flag Levels Version Comparative Grid attached as appendix The Patriot Division of the JSFC abides by National Federation of State High School Association (NFSH) rules, which can be found at unless amended, added, clarified or changed in this document. PHILOSOPHY: The Patriot Football League was orginally founded by Bridgewater Junior Panthers and Watchung Hills Junior Warriors as an independent league. It was subsequently merged under the authority of the JSFC in 2012 as a competative, structured division in support of the JSFC s elite Skyland Divsion. Both divisions play for chanpionships at the Varsity and JV levels Level Game Start Grade Type Rules Section this document Jr Skyland Football Conference Skyland Division (Elite/All-star) Patriot Division (Structured/Playtime) Varsity Level 11:30a 7 th /8 th Section A 1 Team per level JV Level 9:45a 5 th /6 th Tackle (Page 4) Peewee Level 1:15p 3 rd /4 th Flag Level 8:00a K/1 st /2 nd Flag Section B n.a (Page12) 0, 1 or More Teams per level. In youth sports, striving to win is a fundamental element of the competitive process and in striving to win an individual athlete should strive to perform the very best he or she possibly can. The task for the youth coach is to help young athletes develop skills and to perform those skills to the best of their individual abilities. By teaching players that good performance and maximum effort equate to success while poor performance and a lack of effort lead to failure, the players motivation can be enhanced and success is within the reach of all players and coaches. The objective of the Patriuot Division is to create a competive, yet structured, football experienced where the players can focus on learning and building upon the skills and techniques gained from the priors levels to create a positive football experience for all and lay the final groundwork for a successful high school career. The Patriot Division has a maximum playtime philosphy and stresses success through player development over complex schemes and game plans. They must learn to put each other and the Team first. By showing good sportsmanship, dedication, discipline and a commitment to each other, the team and both their individual and team goals they will be ready for a successful High School career and any challenges life may throw them.

2 Patriot Football Rules, 2014 (Section A: Varsity, JV & Peewee) Table of Contents Section A: Varsity, JV & Peewee Patriot Division Rules Of Play:... 4 Tackle-I) Head Coach Responsibilities Related To The Rules & Results... 4 TK-I.A) Game Day Rules Responsibilities... 4 TK-I.B) Game Summary Form... 4 Tackle-II) Tackle Game Structure & Management... 4 TK-II.A) Officials... 4 TK-II.B) On the Field Coaches... 4 TK-II.C) Game Clock & Duration (new 2014)... 4 TK-II.D) Coin Toss... 5 TK-II.E) Overtime... 5 TK-II.F) Protests & Results... 6 TK-II.G) Standings... 6 TK-II.H) The Football... 6 TK-II.I) End of Season Match-ups... 6 Tackle-III) Tackle Gameplay... 6 TK-III.A) Scoring... 6 TK-III.B) Lopside Score Rules... 6 TK-III.C) Kicking Game General... 7 TK-III.D) Kickoffs and Kick Returns... 7 TK-III.E) Punts and Punt Returns... 7 TK-III.F) Field Goals and Kicking PAT s... 8 TK-III.G) Offense: (added focus in 2014)... 8 TK-III.H) Defense: (revised in 2014, whole section)... 9 Tackle-IV) Tackle Roster Management TK-IV.A) Uniform Jerseys TK-IV.B) Roster Approvals TK-IV.C) Playing Time TK-IV.D) Required Equipment TK-IV.E) Weight Restrictions Tackle-V) Tackle Coach, Team and Fan Conduct: TK-V.A) Conduct: All Levels TK-V.C) Suspensions: All Levels Tackle-VI) Tackle Team Names Tackle-VII) Tackle Practices Section B: Flag Patriot Division Rules Of Play: Flag-I) Flag Game Management Updated July 7, 2014 Page 2 of 25

3 Patriot Football Rules, 2014 (Section A: Varsity, JV & Peewee) FG-I.A) Officiating FG-I.B) Game Duration FG-I.C) Coin Toss FG-I.D) Overtime FG-I.E) Time Outs Flag-II) Flag Game Play FG-II.A) Scoring FG-II.B) Lopsided Score Rule FG-II.C) Football FG-II.D) Kicking Game FG-II.E) Safety FG-II.F) Offense FG-II.G) Defense FG-II.H) Protects FG-II.I) Standings & Post-season Flag-III) Flag Team Mangement FG-III.A) Jerseys FG-III.B) Rosters FG-III.C) Captains FG-III.D) Playing time and Opportunities FG-III.E) Game Readiness FG-III.F) Team Names FG-III.G) Practices Flag-IV) Flag Coach, Team and Fan Conduct: FG-IV.A) Conduct FG-IV.B) Suspensions: Appendix A: Varsity, JV, Peewee Comparison Grid Updated July 7, 2014 Page 3 of 25

4 Section A: Varsity, JV & Peewee Patriot Division Rules Of Play: Tackle-I) Head Coach Responsibilities Related To The Rules & Results TK-I.A) Game Day Rules Responsibilities 1) The head coach from each team is responsible for knowing the rules for their level 2) The home team head coach is responsible to offer and give if requested a rules grid to the officials working the games. The grid is part of the appendix of this document. 3) The head coach from each team is responsible to have a copy of their roster to give the oppossing coach upon request. TK-I.B) Game Summary Form 1) Every team is required to complete the "Game Summary Form" after every game they play. 2) It can be completed by the head coach or a designate on his behalf. 3) It requires a brief summary of the game and has optional fields to explain any issues or events that occurred during the game. 4) It is due by 8pm Monday each week after a game is played, even if there were no issues/incident. 5) Incidents include, but are not limited to: Player and/or coach Ejections, Issues with the Officials, Issues with the venue or the fans, Issue/Incidents with opposing or your own coaches, Significant injuries, Eligibility Challenges 6) Failure to submit Game Summary Forms may result in fines and fees for your organization. Tackle-II) Tackle Game Structure & Management TK-II.A) Officials 1) All Tackle Levels: a) All referees must be a carded or cadet officials (added focus in 2014) b) The official game clock and play clock will be kept on the field by the officials. c) Penalties will be enforced at the discretion of the officiating crew as per NFSH rules d) Home team will be responsible for ensuring that officials are assigned for their games and the officials know where the fields are and how to get there. 2) Varisty & JV a) There will be 3 officials for each game as part of the officiating crew b) At least one of the officals must be a carded official c) The game can start with 2 officials, one being a carded official, as long as all parties agree (both teams and the officating crew) 3) Peewee a) There will be 2 officials for each game as part of the officiating crew b) The officials can be carded or cadets c) If less than 2 officials are present it will be the sole decision of the directors of each league as to whether or not to continue with the game or who will officiate in the absence of as officiating crew. TK-II.B) On the Field Coaches 1) All Tackle Levels: There will be No Coaches allowed on the field at any time during execution of plays. Nornal time-out rules apply for coaches to be allowed on the field. TK-II.C) Game Clock & Duration (new 2014) 1) All Tackle Levels: a) The games will consist of four (4) quarters, fifteen (15) minutes each and there will be a 10 minute half time. b) The clock will run based on TIPS rules: Timeouts, Injuries, Penalities & Scores (i) Clock stops for Timeouts, there are 2 timeouts allowed per half. (ii) Clock stops for Injuires whenever a player needs assistance or is delayed getting off the field (iii)clock stops for Penalities. It restarts when ball is ready to play

5 Patriot Football Rules, 2014 (Section A: Varsity, JV & Peewee) (iv) Clock stops for Scores. The clock continues to run after the touchdown, but stops after the PAT, Safety or FG attempt. c) Lopsdied score status does not change the game clock rules TK-II.D) Coin Toss 1) All Tackle Levels: a) Each game shall begin with a coin, called by the away team, toss prior to the start of the game at midfield. b) The head coach or coach designate should accompany their players to midfield for the coin toss c) During the coin toss the Head Referee will identify himself to all the Head Coaches along with Referee responsibilities on the field. (i) Which Referee is keeping the game clock time. (ii) Which Referee is keeping the play clock time. (iii)which Referee is in charge of the down and distance marker. (iv) Which Referee is charge of spotting the ball. d) All choices must be confirmed with the head coach. 2) Varsity & JV levels only a) The winner of the coin flip has the right to defer their choice to the second half. b) The team with the choice has the options to receive, kick-off, or choose a side to defend. c) The teams will change direction between the quarters 3) Peewee level Only a) The winner of the coin toss cannot defer and must make a selection b) The team with the choice has the options to receive, kick-off, or choose a side to defend. c) In the second half, the team that started on offense, will start on defense. The team that lost the toss can select which endzone to defend. d) The teams will not change direction between the quarters TK-II.E) Overtime 1) Varsity & JV levels only a) There will be NO overtime play during the regularly scheduled season (weeks 1 thru 7). All games ending in a tie will remain as such. b) There will only be overtime played during the match-up weeks (weeks 8 & 9) for the A bracket (top four teams by standing). This should be communicated to the officials at the start of the game. All other games ending in a tie will remain as such. c) Overtime periods will follow NFSH Rules unless an exception is described below: (i) In the event that a playoff or championship game is tied at the end of regulation, teams will participate in a coin toss (visiting team will make the call), the winner will have choice of offense or defense and the loser, which goal to defend. (ii) Teams will start on the 15 yard line for the 1 st round and have the opportunity make first downs until they score. If they score a TD, they have the opportunity for a PAT (iii) Each team has an equal number of chances to score until a difference in score is obtained at the end of the round. Each team gets a opportunity on offense unless the defense scores during the round. (iv) If the score is still equal after a round, the starting LOS moves forward 5 yards for the next round. Once the starting LOS is the 5 yard line, it remains there until a winner is declared. (v) During an overtime round, which consists of both an offensive possession and a defensive possession for both teams, each team shall be allocated a single time out. If the tie is not broken and a subseqent round of overtime is initiated, the teams time-outs are reset to one each. 2) Peewee Level Only: There will be NO overtime play at any time during the season. All games ending in a tie will remain as such. 3) Updated July 7, 2014 Page 5 of 25

6 Patriot Football Rules, 2014 (Section A: Varsity, JV & Peewee) TK-II.F) Protests & Results 1) All Levels: a) There are no protests at any level for patriot games b) Officials have final decision on the result and final score of the game on the field. c) In all cases, the decision of the Competition Charirman is final TK-II.G) Standings 1) Varsity & JV Only: (i) Standings are kept for these levels (ii) Standings are based on Wins (a) 2 team tiebreaker: Head-to-Head, Strength of Win, Strength of Loss then Coin Toss (b) If more than 2 teams are tied: Strength of Win, Strength of Loss, then name from hat, if at any time a tie is broken, revert back to the 2 team tiebreaker if possible. (c) Points are never used as a tiebreaker (iii)standings will be used for end of season match-ups 2) Peewee: There are no standings kept at this level TK-II.H) The Football 1) Varsity Level: Wilson TDY football or equivolent-sized ball. 2) JV Level: Wilson TDJ football or equivolent-sized ball. 3) Peewee Level: Wilson K2 football or equivolent-sized ball. 4) All Levels: It can be made of leather or composite material TK-II.I) End of Season Match-ups 1) Varsity & JV: a) Based on standings with two week remaining in the season, the top 4 teams will be placed in a 4 team bracket play group: (i) Week A : 1 vs 4, 2 vs 3 (ii) Week B : Week A winner play for championship, other 2 teams play consolation game b) The remaining teams will be grouped into 4 team sets based on standings and will be scheduled to play each other the final two weeks of the season, non-bracket. Avoiding rematches when possible. 2) Peewee: a) There is no championship b) All teams will be grouped into 4 team sets based on standings and will be scheduled to play each other the final two weeks of the season, non-bracket. Avoiding rematches when possible. Tackle-III) Tackle Gameplay TK-III.A) Scoring 1) All Tackle Levels: a) Touchdown = 6 points, Field Goal = 3 points b) PAT will start at the 3 yard line (i) 2 points will be awarded for a good kick (ii) 1 point for scoring via the run or completion of a pass c) Safety = 2 points (i) Varsity level Only: Following a safety, the team giving up the safety has a free kick from their own 25 yd line (ii) JV & Peewee: Following a safety, the team that scored the safety takes over on offense from mid-field. TK-III.B) Lopside Score Rules 1) JV and Varsity levels only: Lopsided score threshold is 17 points Updated July 7, 2014 Page 6 of 25

7 Patriot Football Rules, 2014 (Section A: Varsity, JV & Peewee) 2) Peewee level only: Lopsided score threshold is 12 points 3) All Tackle levels: a) Once a team is up by the lopsided score threshold, the 1 st string, predominate playtime backfield: QB, RBs and Wing backs if they run one, must be switched out and those players cannot play in the backfield until no longer lopsided score. b) A new set of backfield players needs to be inserted, a player can t just change positions Example. The starting QB can't become the HB, but if required, although not recommended, he can play OL. c) The starters can return to their original positions if the game score returns to be less than the lopsided score for their level d) The spirit of this rule is to maintain an equitable playing competition being not all programs are able to pull from the same size pool of players. The objective is for one team to not dominate the other e) The expectation from the Competition Chairman and executive board is all teams should be prepared to execute this switch if needed. f) No changes are required if the score threshold continues to grow, however, it is the responsibility of the head coaches to maintain control of the scoring from this point on through play-calling and substitutions. TK-III.C) Kicking Game General PAT/FGs Punt/Returns Kickoff/Returns Varsity Allowed Allowed Allowed JV Allowed Allowed Not Allowed Peewee Free Kick, no rush Not Allowed Not Allowed TK-III.D) Kickoffs and Kick Returns 1) Varsity level Only: Allowed a) All kickoffs will be executed from the 40 yard line. b) The kick off team will always be aligned in a balanced set. Kicker in the center of the field and 5 players to his left and right. c) There will be no onside kicks allowed. (i) Each kickoff must travel at least 15 yards or the opposing team will be awarded the ball from the spot that it was kicked (not where it was recovered). (ii) If the kicking team touches and ultimately recovers the ball before going 20 yards, the receiving team takes possesion where it was recovered (iii)any kick-off going at least 20 yards before being touched is a live ball and either team can recover. 2) JV and Peewee level Only: Kickoffs NOT allowed. a) At the start of the game after a coin toss whoever elects to receive the ball will start on their 35- yard line on offense. b) After a touchdown is scored the team that was scored upon takes over on offense from their 35- yard line. TK-III.E) Punts and Punt Returns 1) Varisty and JV levels Only: a) Punts are allowed at these levels b) Fake punts are allowed, however they must be run outside the guards. (no runs in A gaps) c) Offense & Defense must take normal, balanced punt and punt return alignments. d) Defense can have 6 defenders in the box, however no defensive player can be lined up heads up on the center or in either A gap and no blitzers in the A gaps. e) The defense can rush at the snap of the ball. 2) Peewee level only: a) Punts are not allowed at this level Updated July 7, 2014 Page 7 of 25

8 Patriot Football Rules, 2014 (Section A: Varsity, JV & Peewee) b) On fourth down a team must declare of they are punting the ball or going for it. c) If a punt is declared (i) The ball will be moved 20 yards downfield and the opposing team will start on offense from that point. (ii) A punt cannot be moved inside the opposing team s 20 yard line. d) Team declares they are going to try for a first down the play is run and if a first down is not made the opposing team takes over from the line of scrimmage at the end of the fourth down play. TK-III.F) Field Goals and Kicking PAT s 1) All Tackle Levels a) Field Goals and Kicking PAT are allowed 2) Varsity & JV levels Only a) Fake field goals or PATs are allowed, however they must be run outside the guards. b) Defense can have as many players on the LOS as they want, however no defensive player can be lined up heads up on the center or in either A gap and no blitzers in the A gaps. c) Defensive players rush at the snap of the ball. 3) Peewee Level only a) Field Goals and Kicking PAT are allowed however, they are treated as a free kick. (i) Everyone lines up on offense and defense as if a play is to be run. (ii) The only players who participate in the play are the center, holder and kicker. All other players remain in their position on the snap of the ball. (iii)players are permitted to hold their hands up and jump up to block the ball when it is kicked, however, there is no rush on the play. (iv) The holder and kicker can take their time in setting up and attempting the kick. Rushing before the ball is kicked will result in an offside call and a re-kick. b) Fakes are not permitted TK-III.G) Offense: (added focus in 2014) 1) Formations & Shifts: a) Varsity: No Limits b) JV: (i) No unbalanced lines, each formation must have 2 ineligible OL on either side of the center. e.g OT-OG-C-OG-OT and OTs must be covered (ii) No Empty Backfield. This mean must have at least one, stationary back in the backfield along with quarterback and they must be no wider than the OTs at the snap (iii)can not have any trips formations or have 4 wideouts. i.e no 3x1 trips or 2x2 double twins (iv) Motion is allowed c) Peewee: (i) No unbalanced lines, each formation must have 2 ineligible OL on either side of the center. e.g OT-OG-C-OG-OT and OTs must be covered (ii) Must have at least two backs in the backfield along with quarterback. This mean must have at least two, stationary backs in the backfield along with quarterback and they must be no wider than the OTs at the snap (iii)motion is allowed 2) Plays types a) Varsity & JV: No Limits b) Peewees: (i) No more than one handoff per offensive play (e.g. No Reverses) (ii) Only the quterback man pass the ball (e.g. No Pitch-Pass) (iii) From under center, the quaterback cannot run between the tackles (e.g. No QB sneeak) Updated July 7, 2014 Page 8 of 25

9 Patriot Football Rules, 2014 (Section A: Varsity, JV & Peewee) (iv) From shotgun, the quarterback can run outside the tackles or fake a handoff with a back crossing in front of him then keep and run between tackles (e.g. no QB power/dives from gun without playaction) TK-III.H) Defense: (revised in 2014, whole section) 1) General & Spirit of the Rules: All Levels a) The objective is to promote offense at the Patriot division level b) Encourage sound defense skills and put the game in the hands of the players, not the defense coach s schemes. c) Practice time should be used on tackling, shedding blocks, coverage, read/react and other defense fundamentals. 2) Field Zones: All Levels a) Normal: From the opponents goal-line to your own 10 yd line (90 yds) b) Goal-line Situation: From your own 10 yd line to your own goal line (10 yds) 3) General Formation Allowances a) Varsity & JV: Will run standard 5 or 4 man fronts unless in goal line situations (see below) b) Peewee will run 4-3, cover 2 defense unless in goal-line or stiuations (see below) 4) The Box : (new and important in 2014) a) All Levels: (i) Defined as 3 yds outside the Last Man down On the line of Scrimmage (LMOS) and 5 yards deep from the Line Of Scrimmage. (LOS) b) Varsity & JV Only (i) In Goal-line situations, back of box stops at the team s own goal line, i.e. defenders not in the box don t need to be in their own endzone, but must be no closer than on goal-line at snap of the ball. c) Peewee (i) In Goal-line situations, the box is still 5 yards deep from LOS, regardless if they have to lineup in the endzone. d) All levels: any box or blitzing violation will be consider an 5 yard Encroachment penalty 5) Maximum Players in the Box : a) Varsity Only: (i) Players allowed in the box: (a) Normal: no more than 5 defensive players can be in the box at the snap of the ball (b) Goal Line: no more than 6 defensive players can be in the box at the snap of the ball (ii) Players in the box can be in 2 or 3 point stances, anywhere within the box (iii)defenders can line up in gaps or heads-up on defenders (iv) Players in the box can be moving, including toward the LOS, up to and at the snap of the ball. b) JV Only: (i) Players allowed in the box: (a) Normal: no more than 5 defensive players can be in the box at the snap of the ball (b) Goal Line: no more than 6 defensive players can be in the box at the snap of the ball (ii) Players in the box can be in 2 or 3 point stances (iii)any defender on the LOS and either covering or between the OTs must be in a 3 point stance. No standup LBs on LOS from RT to LT (iv) A Gap defenders (a) When in normal field zone: Only one defender is allowed between the guards. Only on player from inside shoulder of RG to inside shoulder of LG. No Double A defenses (b) In goal line situation: No limit to the number of defenders from inside shoulder of RG to inside shoulder of LG. Double A defenses OK. (v) Defenders can line up in gaps or heads-up on defenders Updated July 7, 2014 Page 9 of 25

10 Patriot Football Rules, 2014 (Section A: Varsity, JV & Peewee) (vi) Players in the box CANNOT be moving once they are set and the offense begins the cadence, they and CANNOT be moving toward the LOS at the snap of the ball. (i.e. No Blitzing) c) Peewee Only (i) Players allowed in the box: (a) Normal Zone: no more than 4 defensive players can be in the box at the snap of the ball (b) Goal Line: no more than 5 defensive players can be in the box at the snap of the ball (ii) All defenders on the LOS and in the box must be 3 point stances. i.e. no stand-up DEs inside the Box (a) DL alignment (Note: QB cannot run the A gaps, between the OGs) 1. All DL from RT to LT to must be heads-up on an offensive lineman, i.e No one is allowed to be lined up in a gap or aligned in a shoulder technique in the A or B gaps 2. Normal Zone: This means either heads up on OT or OG. No Nose Guard 3. Goal Line Situation: This means either heads up on OT, OG or C. Nose Guard is now allaowed (b) DL are allowed to be outside shoulder technique on OT or TE if they are last down lineman in formation. (iii) Any players in the box CANNOT be moving once they are set and the offense begins the cadence, they and CANNOT be moving, no shifting during cadence. (i.e. No Blitzing) (iv) Even if there are less than 4 players in the box, no player from outside the box area and enter the box area once the cadence starts. i.e. no simulated blitz by inserting players into the box late. No one can move in the box once the offesive cadence starts. 6) Safeties/Corners/DBs a) Varsity: No requirements/restrictions b) JV Only: (i) Safeties (a) Normal: Single high safety required -10 yds from LOS 1. Exception: If there are 3 eligible recievers on same side of the ball (This may include tight end) Safety can come down and play as a corner on one of the receivers. (b) Goal line Situation: No safety required (ii) Corner (a) Must line up 3 Yds off of LOS, no press man coverage (b) If no wide receiever on their side, CB must still be 3y by 3y from LMOS c) Peewee (i) Safeties (a) Normal: Double high safety required -10 yds from LOS. No Exceptions (offense cannot have 3 eligible recievers on same side of the ball or line up in a 2x2 formation ). (b) Goal line Situation: Single high safety required -10 yds from LOS (ii) Corner (a) Must line up 3 Yds off of LOS, no press man coverage (b) If no wide receiever on their side, CB must still be 3x3 from LMOS Tackle-IV) Tackle Roster Management TK-IV.A) Uniform Jerseys 1) All Levels: Coaches should attempt to have jersey numbers reflect the player s position as per NFSH Rules to the best of their ability. However these rules will not be strictly enforced. 2) All Levels: Each player should have their own unique uniform number 3) All Levels: Coaches should attempt to not have two or more players with the same number on the field at the same time. They are required to notify the opposing coach and the officials before the start of the game if they do. (updated 9/15/14) Updated July 7, 2014 Page 10 of 25

11 Patriot Football Rules, 2014 (Section A: Varsity, JV & Peewee) TK-IV.B) Roster Approvals 1) All Levels: Each participating league must submit a complete roster for each of their teams to league officials on the roster certification date for approval. The certification normally occurs during the week before Labor day and will be announced in advance 2) All Levels: Once the rosters are set, additions to the rosters can be made during the week by notifying the Competition Chairman via the online form on the JSFC website by Wednesday to be eligible the iuupcoming week. 3) All Levels: Once the rosters are set, if an orgnaization has more than on team at a level, players are assigned to a specific team and players are not to be moved from one team to another. 4) All levels: The first team an organization enters into any level of the Patriot division can have up to 31 players on that team. The coaches must make every effort to ensure all get an equal amount of playing time. Once you have a 32nd player you must split that team into 2 teams of 16 with a maximum of 22 players per team. TK-IV.C) Playing Time 1) All Levels: All rostered players shall get at least one opportunity during the year to be a captain to start the game. 2) All Levels a) If the Patriot roster is 22 players or less, (i) ALL players must play at least half of every game, this implies they play half of all plays in the game (ii) ALL players must start. If they do not start on offense they must start on defense. They also must get some playing time on each side of the ball. No single player can get all of his playing time only on offense or only on defense. Coaches should make every effort to have players play more than one position on both sides of the ball. b) If there are more than 22 players on the roster (i) A player can only start in one position. (ii) Any playter not starting at the beginning of the game must start at the beginning of the 2 nd half (iii) The head coach must esnure equal playing time for all players on his team. TK-IV.D) Required Equipment 1) All Levels: All players must have all their equipment with them in order to participate in any given game or practice. 2) This equipment is to include: helmet, shoulder pads, rib guards, mouth piece, jersey, athletic supporter and cup, football pants, 2 knee pads, 2 thigh pads, girdle, 2 hip pads, a tail pad and football cleats. TK-IV.E) Weight Restrictions 1) All Levels: Each league is required to weigh in their individual players before the season starts. 2) All Levels: There are weight restrictions for running the ball. 3) Weight Limits: a) Varsity: 150 lbs, tested at 158 (weight+8) all pads without Helmet b) JV: 125 lbs, tested at 132 (weight+7) all pads without Helmet c) Peewee: 105 lbs, tested at 111 (weight+6) all pads without Helmet 4) All Levels: a) Any child weighing more than the ball carrier weight allowment must play from tackle to tackle on offense and cannot run the ball or catch passes. b) On defense, he must play on the defensive line or linebacker. He is ineligible to play cornerback or safety. c) A list of kids that are ineligible to run the ball will be posted on a secure area for coaches only on the JSFC website in the coaches section. Updated July 7, 2014 Page 11 of 25

12 Patriot Football Rules, 2014 (Section A: Varsity, JV & Peewee) 5) All Levels: Prior to every game both head coaches should meet to discuss their individual team players that are ineligible to run the ball. During warm ups each coach should make an effort to inspect the players on the opposing team. During the pregame discussion with the opposing coach any questions as to size and weight should be brought up. If there are players either coach still feel are questionable then it should be brought up to the site director at least 15 minutes before the scheduled start of the game. This will allow ample time for the player or players in question to be weighed without causing a disruption to the regularly scheduled start time of any game or having a child be embarrassed by being kept out of the start of a game to be weighed and checked for eligibility. Tackle-V) Tackle Coach, Team and Fan Conduct: TK-V.A) Conduct: All Levels 1) The conduct of all participants: coaches, players, cheerleaders, officials (i.e.; chain gang, trainer, statistician etc.) and parents at games is of critical importance. TK-V.B) The following points must be observed: All Levels a) All spectators must view the game from within the 20 yard line and must be at least l0 yards back from the sideline. b) Players and coaches must refrain from open, loud, visible criticism of players, cheerleaders, coaches, parents and officials during the game. Penalty for violation could be l5 yards at the discretion of the game or the senior league official. Offending party may be suspended from the game. c) A second unsportsmanlikeconduct call on the same person during the season will be considered grounds for expulsion from the league for an individual player, cheerleader, coach, parent or official involved pending JSFC approval. d) Coaches must take special efforts to see that the conduct of parents reflects favorably on their team. Harassment of Officials and unruly conduct of parents will be subject to l5 yard penalties. In the case of abusive conduct on the sidelines, officials will warn the offending team. Repeated violations will result in penalties may incldue forfeiture of the game. e) Anytime it is necessary for an official to penalize a team l5 yards for unsportsmanlike conduct on the part of any non-player (coach, parent, cheerleader, statistician, etc.), the offending adult will be asked to leave the playing field immediately. f) The consumption of drugs, alcoholic beverages, or tobacco products on a game or practice field by anyone is strictly prohibited. TK-V.C) Suspensions: All Levels 1) Suspensions: Player a) Any player ejected from a game will be suspended from the next scheduled game. b) Any player ejected from 2 games in a season will be suspended for 2 games. 2) Suspension: Coach a) Any coach ejected from a game will be suspended from the next scheduled game. b) Any coach ejected from 2 games within a single season shall be banned from coaching in the JSFC indefinitely pending an application to be re-admitted. Readmission must be submitted by the Directors of the offending party s organization. There are no appeals to this process however the offending party is permitted to reapply on a yearly basis for readmission. Tackle-VI) Tackle Team Names TK-VI.A) All Levels: Individual teams in the Patriot Division will be given nicknames based on their respective Skyland team names TK-VI.B) Multiple teams at the same level will be assigned color-code names to differentiate them: Red, White, Blue, Silver. Updated July 7, 2014 Page 12 of 25

13 Patriot Football Rules, 2014 (Section A: Varsity, JV & Peewee) Tackle-VII) Tackle Practices TK-VII.A) Practices will begin on or about August 15 th or the Monday thereafter if the 15 th falls on a Saturday or Sunday. The first full week of practice will be 4 weeks prior to the first game. TK-VII.B) Once practices begin on each Varsity team will be allowed a maximum of 10 hours of practice time per week with no single practice exceeding 2 hours in length for a total of 5 practices per week. Once school begins each team will be allowed a maximum of 6 hours of practice time per week with no single practice exceeding 2 hours in length for a maximum of 3 practices per week. TK-VII.C) A practice will be defined as a meeting of more than 4 players with a coach and can occur at the practice field or a coach s home. For each hour of practice all players must be allowed a 10-minute water break. Updated July 7, 2014 Page 13 of 25

14 Section B: Flag Patriot Division Rules Of Play: Flag-I) Flag Game Management FG-I.A) Officiating 1) There will be no assigned officials for flag games. 2) Two coaches from each team will be on the field with their team at all times and will officiate the game. a) Penalties will not be enforced unless they are blatant and in a coach s opinion affect the outcome of a play. For example a sweep away with backside holding will never be enforced; however on a sweep where the play side cornerback, who is in position to make the play, is tackled by an offensive lineman with the offense scoring a touchdown should be enforced. b) Rather than enforce penalties, after completion of the play a coach should explain to the offending player what he did wrong and instruct him in the proper technique to be employed in the future. c) If a penalty must be enforced it can only be enforced as replaying the down from the original line of scrimmage. 3) Coaches Positoning a) One will be in the huddle and the other will be on the line of scrimmage. b) Only one coach from each team will be allowed in their respective huddles at any time. c) Before the snap of the ball the Huddle Coaches should back up from the line of scrimmage approximately 10 yards. d) The Line Coaches should be positioned at the end of the line of scrimmage and should make sure everyone is aligned properly before the start of the play and that there is at least 1 yard between the tip of the ball and the closest defensive lineman. e) It will be the Line Coaches responsibility to keep the game clock and to make sure that after the spotting of the ball the next play s started as quickly as possible with a maximum of 60 seconds before the start of the next play. f) Once a play begins, on-field coaches, Huddle or Line are NOT allowed to shout directions to the players on the field, especially, the direction of a play, who has the ball, or what direction to run in. Coaches who violate this rule consistently will be asked to leave the field. FG-I.B) Game Duration 1) All Flag games will consist of two 30-minute running halves with a 15-minute half time. 2) The clock can only be stopped via a time out. FG-I.C) Coin Toss 1) Each game shall begin with a coin toss. 2) The coin toss takes place prior to the start of the game at midfield 3) The home head coach will do the coint toss. 4) One of the coaches from the home team will be assigned to keep the running clock. 5) Away team calls the coin toss a) The winner of the coin toss cannot defer and must make a selection b) The team with the choice has the options to receive, kick-off, or choose a side to defend. c) In the second half, the team that started on offense, will start on defense. Teams will defend the opposite end of the field in the second half. FG-I.D) Overtime 1) There will be NO overtime play at the flag level. Any games ending in a tie will remain as such. FG-I.E) Time Outs 1) Each team will be allocated two time outs per game. 2) They can be used at the discretion of the coaches, 1 per half, 2 in either half but not both, or not at all.

15 Patriot Football Rules, 2014 (Section B: Flag) Flag-II) Flag Game Play FG-II.A) Scoring 1) Touchdown = 7 points 2) There will be no P.A.T. s. FG-II.B) Lopsided Score Rule 1) Once a team is up by two touchdowns they must switch out their entire starting/prodominate backfield including their quarterback. 2) If a team goes up by two additional touchdowns with their new set of backs then they also must be removed and replaced with a new set of backs. FG-II.C) Football 1) The Flag level will use a Wilson K2 football or a similarly sized ball. 2) It can be made of leather or composite material. FG-II.D) Kicking Game 1) There is no kicking game at this level. There will be no kickoffs, kick returns, punts or punt returns at this level 2) All situations where a kick could occur will be handled as explained below: a) At the start of the game after a coin toss whoever elects to receive the ball will start on the 40 yard line on offense 1st and 10. b) After a touchdown is scored the team that was scored upon takes over on offense from the 40 yard line 1st and 10. c) On fourth down all teams must attempt to get the first down. If they fail the defense will take over on offense after the ball is moved back to the offesnes own 40 yard line. d) Field Goals and extra points are not allowed. FG-II.E) Safety 1) There will be no safeties at this level. FG-II.F) Offense 1) No matter what position you are playing all players will be in a 2 point stance. There will be no players in a three point stance at the start of a play at this level. 2) Only standard offensive formations may only be used. No unbalanced lines or over shifts are permitted a) No unbalanced lines, each formation must have 2 ineligible OL on either side of the center. e.g OT-OG-C-OG-OT and OTs must be covered b) Must have at least two backs in the backfield along with quarterback. 3) The only offensive plays that can be run are up the middle, off tackle, sweeps, pitch sweeps, passes, screen passes and Quarterback keepers/bootlegs. 4) There are no reverses or double reverses allowed at this level. The ball can only be handed off one time. 5) When lining up at the line of scrimmage all linemen must take arms length splits before setting for the play. 6) Chains will be used and a first down will be awarded after 10 yards are gained. This will continue until a touchdown is scored or a turnover occurs. FG-II.G) Defense 1) Field Zones a) Normal: From the opponents goal-line to your own 10 yd line (90 yds) b) Goal-line Situation: From your own 10 yd line to your own goal line (10 yds) 2) Normal Zone: a) All teams will run a standard 4-3, cover 2 defense. Updated July 7, 2014 Page 15 of 25

16 Patriot Football Rules, 2014 (Section B: Flag) b) All linebackers and cornerbacks must be lines up 5 yards from the line of scrimmage. c) Safety s should be 10 yards from the line of scrimmage. d) On a tight end set the cornerback must be lined up minimum of 3 yards outside the tight end. e) On a wide set the cornerback can align 1 2 yards inside of the wide receiver. f) All defensive linemen will be aligned head up or eye shaded on their offense lineman one foot off of the tip of the ball. There will be NO gap play. g) At the start of every play all defensive lineman must engage their offensive counter parts before pursuing to the ball. h) There is no blitzing of any kind at this level. 3) Goal Line Situation a) Teams are allowed to goto a 5-2 or 4-3 and go from 2 safties to 1 safety. b) All rules about player depth still apply. This mean defenders may need to line up in the endzone. FG-II.H) Protects 1) There are no protests for flag games. The decision of the league director is final. 2) These games are played for fun and to teach the kids the fundamentals of the game not for the sake of winning. FG-II.I) Standings & Post-season 1) There will be no standings kept at this level. 2) There will be no post season play and no standings kept at the flag level. The season will culminate with an All Star game for 2nd Graders only. Flag-III) Flag Team Mangement FG-III.A) Jerseys 1) Coaches should attempt to have jersey numbers reflect the player s position as per NFSH Rules to the best of their ability. 2) However these rules will not be strictly enforced. FG-III.B) Rosters 1) Each participating league must submit a complete roster for each of their flag teams to league officials from the other league for approval prior to the start of the season. 2) Once the rosters are set additions to the rosters can be made during the week by notifying the opposing league officials by Wednesday of game week. 3) However, once the rosters are set, players are assigned to a specific team, and the season has begun, players are not to be moved from one flag team to another. FG-III.C) Captains 1) All rostered players shall get at least one opportunity during the year to be a captain to start the game. FG-III.D) Playing time and Opportunities 1) All rostered players shall get at least one opportunity during the year to run the ball. Coaches should try to give as many players the opportunity to run the ball each game. 2) All players shall play multiple positions throughout the year with the goal of at least 2 offensive and 2 defensive postions. 3) ALL players must play at least half of every game. a) If they do not start on offense they must start on defense. b) They must get some playing time on each side of the ball. c) No single player can get all of his playing time only on offense or only on defense. FG-III.E) Game Readiness 1) Required Equipment: All players must have a mouth piece, athletic supporter and cup, and cleats before they will be allowed to participate in any given game or practice. Updated July 7, 2014 Page 16 of 25

17 Patriot Football Rules, 2014 (Section B: Flag) 2) Weigh-In: There are no weight restrictions for the Flag level. Any child can play any position and any child can run the ball. FG-III.F) Team Names 1) Individual teams in the Patriot Division will be given nicknames based on their respective Skyland team names 1) Multiple teams at the same level will be assigned color-code names to differentiate them: Red, White, Blue, Silver. FG-III.G) Practices 1) Practices will begin on or about August 15 th or the Monday thereafter if the 15 th falls on a Saturday or Sunday. The first full week of practice will be 4 weeks prior to the first game. 2) Once practices begin on each team will be allowed a maximum of 6 hours of practice time per week with no single practice exceeding 2 hours in length for a total of 3 practices per week. Once school begins each team will be allowed a maximum of 4 hours of practice time per week with no single practice exceeding 2 hours in length for a maximum of 2 practices per week. 3) A practice will be defined as a meeting of more than 4 players with a coach and can occur at the practice field or a coach s home. For each hour of practice all players must be allowed a 10-minute water break. Flag-IV) Flag Coach, Team and Fan Conduct: FG-IV.A) Conduct 1) The conduct of all participants: coaches, players, cheerleaders, officials (i.e.; chain gang, trainer, statistician etc.) and parents at games is of critical importance. 2) The following points must be observed: All Levels a) All spectators must view the game from within the 20 yard line and must be at least l0 yards back from the sideline. b) Players and coaches must refrain from open, loud, visible criticism of players, cheerleaders, coaches, parents and officials during the game. Penalty for violation could be l5 yards at the discretion of the game or the senior league official. Offending party may be suspended from the game. c) A second unsportsmanlikeconduct call on the same person during the season will be considered grounds for expulsion from the league for an individual player, cheerleader, coach, parent or official involved pending JSFC approval. d) Coaches must take special efforts to see that the conduct of parents reflects favorably on their team. Harassment of Officials and unruly conduct of parents will be subject to l5 yard penalties. In the case of abusive conduct on the sidelines, officials will warn the offending team. Repeated violations will result in penalties may incldue forfeiture of the game. e) Anytime it is necessary for an official to penalize a team l5 yards for unsportsmanlike conduct on the part of any non-player (coach, parent, cheerleader, statistician, etc.), the offending adult will be asked to leave the playing field immediately. f) The consumption of drugs, alcoholic beverages, or tobacco products on a game or practice field by anyone is strictly prohibited. FG-IV.B) Suspensions: 1) Suspensions: Player a) Any player ejected from a game will be suspended from the next scheduled game. b) Any player ejected from 2 games in a season will be suspended for 2 games. 2) Suspension: Coach a) Any coach ejected from a game will be suspended from the next scheduled game. Updated July 7, 2014 Page 17 of 25

18 Patriot Football Rules, 2014 (Section B: Flag) b) Any coach ejected from 2 games within a single season shall be banned from coaching in the JSFC indefinitely pending an application to be re-admitted. Readmission must be submitted by the Directors of the offending party s organization. There are no appeals to this process however the offending party is permitted to reapply on a yearly basis for readmission. Updated July 7, 2014 Page 18 of 25

19 Appendix A: Varsity, JV, Peewee Comparison Grid Rule Patriot PEE WEE Patriot JV Patriot VARSITY Game Time 1:15p 9:45 am 11:30 am Officials YES - 2 YES -3 (minimum 2) YES -3 (minimum 2) Penalty Warnings 2 Allowed 1 Allowed None Allowed Warnings Guidelines Allowed on false starts, off sides and alignment issues. If is blatant and affects outcome of play or is a safety risk, it is enforced without warning. High School Rules. Coaches On Field NO NO NO Game Duration TIPS Clock: Stops on Timeout, Injuries, Penalties; Scores 4 x 15 minute quarters Overtime NO YES (playoffs only) - start at 15 yd line YES (playoffs only) - start at 15 yd line Timeouts 2 total per half. 2 total per half., 1 per OT Period Scoring TD=6 pts; PAT Run = 1 pt, PAT Kick = 2 pts. Lopsided Score Trigger 12+ Points 17+ Points 17+ points Lopsided Score Rules Kickoffs Punts (Corrected 9/15) Field Goals/Pat Kicks NO - Ball is moved 20 yards downfield but not inside 20 yard line. YES - free kicks/no rush. Winning must switch out their 1st string (primary) backfield. Make an effort to get backups in for both offense and defense. NO - Ball starts on 35 yd line. YES - Kick from 40 yd line. No unbalanced formations. No onsides kicks allowed. Receiving team lines up 15yds back from kicker. YES - High School Rules. No head up on center or in "A" gap. D Alignment-6 man head up on G and T and outside shade on TE. Fakes allowed but not up the middle (A-Gap). YES - High School Rules. No head up on center or in "A" gap. D Alignment-6 man head up on G and T and outside shade on TE. Fakes allowed but not up the middle (A-Gap). Safety 2 pts. Ball is placed at 50 yard line. 2 pts. Ball is placed at 50 yard line. 2 pts. Offense kicks from 25 yd line. Offense Formations Offense Plays No unbalanced lines OT tackles must be covered 2 Backs required in backfield with QB Can only hand ball off once. No reverses. No halfback passes. QB cannot run the ball between the tackles if under center (NO QB sneaks). No unbalanced lines OT tackles must be covered 1 Back required in backfield with QB Any offensive plays, no limits No Limitations

20 Patriot Football Rules, 2014 (Section B: Flag) Rule Patriot PEE WEE Patriot JV Patriot VARSITY Defense: Formations (Normal Zone) Defense: Formations (Goal Line Situation) Defense: Gap Alignment Defense: Blitz Defense: Player Depth Defense: Goal Line player depth Must run 4-3. Cover 2 Only 4 men in the box DL heads up no NG 4 or 5 man front and no more than 5 players in the Box DL Heads up NG OK None, but DL can be on outside shoulder of LMOS NOT Allowed YES Once cadence starts. No movement allowed toward the LOS ball is snapped No more than 5 players in the Box No more than 6 players in the Box YES Players can be moving toward LOS anytime including and at snap of ball LBs outside box and 5 yds deep, Corners 3 yds deep and 3 yd outside LMOS, Safeties 10 yds deep Same, no changes Box remains 5 yds deep Box no deeper than Goal-line Defenders no required to line up in end-zone Football Type Wilson K2 Wilson TDJ Wilson TDY Playing Time Ball Carrier Weight Restrictions Must start on O or D and play at least 50% of game unless roster greater than 22, then equal time for all players 105 / (111 allowance) 125 / (132 allowance) 150 / (158 allowance) Weight Restrictions Rules Post Season Rosters Max Players On Team If over limit, cannot run ball or catch passes. On Defense play D-line or linebacker only. Any kids ineligible to run the ball will be posted on a secure area for coaches only on the League website. Spot check weigh-ins by Site Director prior to game - Allowance with all pads, no helmet. No playoffs. Seeding is based on records from week 1-7 of regular season. Top 4 play bracket format for championship Rest grouped and scheduled for match-up weeks Rosters for each team will be posted on the JSFC League website for coaches to access. Rosters must include name, number, age, and weight at beginning of season. The first team a program enters into any division of the Patriot League can have up to 31 players on that team. The coaches must make every effort to ensure all get an equal amount of playing time. Once you have a 32 nd player you must split that team into 2 teams of 16 with a maximum of 22 players per team. Coin Toss Cannot defer Swap Off/Def 2 nd half Winner can make choice or defer to 2nd half. Updated July 7, 2014 Page 20 of 25

21 Patriot Football Rules, 2014 (Section B: Flag) The Box: Examples 5 yards deep 3 yards outside LMOS Note the left side of box is based on the OT because no TE exists, but the tight side is based on the TE In this example, the wing back does not change the edge of the box, only down lineman on the line of scrimmage. Defense Box Examples on own 2 yard line backed up to endzone Box colloapse as deep as from LOS to Goaline. Defending linebackers can be on goal line. Box rules still exist. The box rules are unchanged for peewee, even inside 5 yard line. Updated July 7, 2014 Page 21 of 25

22 Patriot Football Rules, 2014 (Section B: Flag) Peewee Defense Formations: = Down Def lineman, = 2 pt stance, = Corners, = Safeties DL heads up, no one on center 4-3 Cover 2 DL heads up, Offside corner 3x3 outside box Lineback covers slot, still cover 2 and 4 down lineman. DL OK to shade outside of LMOS Penalty: Linbacker in the box at sanp of ball Penalty: Abandoned cover two and safety down in coverage Insise 10, defense can add 5 DL in box and cover the center. Updated July 7, 2014 Page 22 of 25

23 Patriot Football Rules, 2014 (Section B: Flag) JV Defense Formations: = Down Def lineman, = 2 pt stance, = Corners, = Safeties 5 in box at snap, single safety, CB in box OK still only 5 in box Penalty: No safety. Need to maintain single high safety unless insde own 10yd line Penalty: LB (#6) moves into box presnap too many in box being CB already in box. As well as possible noblitz violation if moving at snap. Would have been ok if pre-cadence and CB wasn t in box At JV, can t have LB standing at LOS between OTs. If #3 goes 3pt then OK. #5 is OK because although in box, not at LOS. Updated July 7, 2014 Page 23 of 25

24 Patriot Football Rules, 2014 (Section B: Flag) Varsity Defense Formations: = Down Def lineman, = 2 pt stance, = Corners, = Safeties 5 in box at snap, no safety required, can cover slot OK for Corner to be in box (#5) as long as no more than 5 in box at snap Penalty: LB (#6 ) moves into box presnap too many in box because CB already in box. LBs #2 and #4 are blitzing, and moving at snap, but OK becuase still no more than 5 in box Updated July 7, 2014 Page 24 of 25

25 Patriot Football Rules, 2014 (Section B: Flag) Backfield diagrams and defintions: with Peewee examples Updated July 7, 2014 Page 25 of 25