Football Rules

SPORTS LEAGUE OFFICIALS ASSOCIATION

OFFICIAL COED5v5 FLAG FOOTBALL RULES

OVERVIEW

5 players on the field (3 Males/2 females) – You can play with a minimum of four players (at least one must be female and you can never have more than 3 men)

Two 20-minute halves

A first down will be achieved each time the ball reaches the 2nd cone from where the ball was originally spotted on first down

6 point touchdowns

Choice of 1 or 2 extra points on PAT’s (3 paces/yards for 1 Pt., 10 paces/yards for 2 pts.)

Dead ball on all fumbles

Quarterbacks cannot snap the ball to themselves

Running clock except for final two minutes of 2nd half

Ties during regular season stay as a tie

ONLY 2-Point conversion attempts may be intercepted and returned for 2 points

Laterals may be intercepted and run back for a touchdown or yardage.

Referees are responsible for shouting out the rush count for teams

Players that rush the passer must be 7 yards from the line of scrimmage when the ball is snapped.

Players acting as offensive linemen must have their hands behind their back or at their side when protecting the quarterback from rushers.

There is no contact at or behind the line of scrimmage.

Four-Downs-and-Out format applies for ties in the playoffs.

Receivers need only one foot in-bounds with possession of the ball to be considered a catch

Rule Clarification – The clock does not stop for a 2 minute warning unless there is a dead ball situation when the clock hits 2 minutes.

Rule Clarification- Offsides on the defense will be a free play for the offense. After the play the offense will decide to take the 5 yard penalty or the result of the play

COIN FLIP/BEGINNING OF GAME

• The beginning of the game will start with the CSSC staff using an “odd/even”, or coin flip. The winning team will then have one of three options: 1) offense; 2) defense; or 3) direction. Teams flip flop direction, at the start of the second half. The team that started the game on defense will start the second half on offense. There are no kick-offs. Play starts 10 paces/yards from the designated goal-line.

PAID REFEREE LEAGUES

• Each week CSSC will provide referee(s) for each game.

TEAM SIZE

• Each team shall field 5 players on the field at one time (no more than 3 men). CSSC rules allow a team to play a legal game shorthanded with 4 players, (at least 1 female). Teams may have as many players on their roster as they want. There is no maximum limit on the amount of females on the field at one time. All rosters must be finalized by the second week of the regular season. Players added after the second week, that are not on the team roster or waiver, will not be eligible for playoffs.

FORFEITS

• Teams will have until 10 minutes past the designated start time to field a legal team. Shorthanded teams may play a legal game with a minimum of 4 players, with at least 1 of them being female. Teams fielding less than 4 players or without at least 1 woman will receive a forfeit. Exception: Teams may play a “legal game” with less than 6 players or less than 2 females with the opposing teams consent. Teams who agree to play under these conditions will lose the option of receiving a forfeit win. Teams may pick up players during the regular season in order to field a full team so long as the number of players picked up does not exceed their opponent’s number of players. The use of non-roster players will not be allowed during playoffs. Each team’s waiver will be used as its final roster. Only players on the waivers may play in the playoffs.

SUBSTITUTIONS

• If a team substitutes players during the game, they must do so from the same sideline the entire game. Eligible receivers must be on the playing field before the cadence is started.

TIME

• Play will be divided into (2) 20-minute halves. Teams flip flop direction at the start of the second half. The team that started the game on defense will start the second half on offense. Teams will have 2 time-outs per game that may be used at any time. There will be a running clock until the final 2 minutes of the second half maintained by a referee. During the first 38 minutes, the clock runs continuously with the exception of time-outs and serious injury. If a team calls a timeout after a touchdown the clock will not start again until the defensive team takes possession and snaps the ball on offense. During the final 2 minutes of the game, the referee shall stop the game clock if:

 an incomplete pass is thrown

 a player ends a play by going out of bounds

 either team scores (clock will remain off until the opposing team snaps the ball after the PAT attempt; the clock does not run during extra points)

 change of possession

 a penalty which must be marked off occurs

 A team calls a time out.

 The clock will not stop for a “2 minute warning” unless there is a dead ball situation when the clock hits 2 minutes.

***THE CLOCK DOES NOT STOP ON FIRST DOWNS OR FUMBLES.

** If a team is up by 17 points or more, the clock runs continuously during the last two minutes of play.

For the entire game, the offensive team has 30 seconds to snap the ball once the ball has been spotted. If the referee feels that this is being taking advantage of, the referee will then stop the clock and penalize the offense 5 paces/yards.

STANDINGS

• Standings will be posted at the league and on-line at: www.chicagosocial.com within a few days after the games are completed.

CO-ED SPECIFIC RULES

• There is no maximum limit to the amount of females allowed on the field. To ensure coed participation, a penalty will ensue if the offensive team fails to use a female as an operative player within 3 consecutive downs (This does not reset after a first down…it is every three plays).

An Operative Player is defined as a player who:

 is the intended receiver in the eyes of the official

 runs the ball as the primary runner (does not have to cross line of scrimmage)

 receives the snap as the QB and throws the ball forward towards the line of scrimmage. (ball does not have to cross line of scrimmage)

 receives the snap and immediately spikes the ball at her feet in order to stop the clock in the last 2 minutes.

An Operative Player is NOT defined as a player who:

 hands off the football

 snaps the ball into play

 receives a hand-off only to give it back to a male before crossing the line of scrimmage

Examples:

 a pass deflected by a male and caught by a female is a female play

 a pass intended for a female (in the eyes of the referee) that is deflected by a female, and caught by a male counts as a female play

 a pass thrown by a male, caught by a male, immediately pitched to a female (“the hook and ladder”) does not constitute a female play – no matter how far the female advances with the ball after the pitch

 a pass intentionally grounded by a female in the last 2 minutes of the second half in order to stop the clock counts as a female play

 if a female pitches the ball to a male behind the line of scrimmage, it will not result in a female play

 if a female pitches the ball to a male behind the line of scrimmage, at which point he throws it to a female, it will count as a female play

 if it is a forced female play and a male is sacked as quarterback, it will count as a female play. The next play is then ruled open. This only applies on forced female plays.

The penalty for running 3 consecutive plays without a female as an Operative Player will be loss of down (i.e. if it was 1st down during the penalty, it is now 2nd down) and the female must now be the operative player on the next play. If on this play a male catches or runs the ball: loss of down, the play is ruled “dead”, and the ball is brought back to the line of scrimmage, and the next play must be a female play. If a team fails to utilize a female player on Fourth Down, it becomes a turnover on downs and the ball will be spotted for the other team at the previous line of scrimmage.

Plays utilizing a female and resulting in “loss of down” penalties will still be considered “female” plays.

The slate is clean for extra points and punts and everyone is eligible.

• THE DREADED SACK – If a male is the QB on a play which could either be to a male or female and the QB is sacked the ball is spotted where he was sacked and the play stands as a male play, no matter who was the intended receiver. If a team was forced to use a female as the operative player and the male QB is sacked the play stands as a female play and the offensive team does not have to use a female on the next play.

GENERAL RULES

GAME EQUIPMENT

1) Game ball must meet NFHS and NCAA Ball Specification guideline as Followed:

The ball shall meet the following specification:

Length–10 7/8 inches-11 7/16 inches

Circumference Width– 20 ¾-21 ¼

Circumference length–27 ¾ -28 ½

Weight of 14 to 15 ounces

Inflation pressure of 12 ½ -13 ½ pounds per square inch

• TIE GAMES/SCORING – Games ending in a tie score will be recorded as tie games during regular season play. Please refer to the OVERTIME section for ties during the playoffs. Touchdowns are awarded 6 pts. Extra points: 3 paces/yards off the goal line = 1 pt., 10 paces/yards = 2pts. 2-point conversion attempts may be intercepted and returned for 2 points with the defense retaining possession at their 10 pace/yard line. One-point conversion attempts CANNOT be returned.

• FIRST DOWNS – Each team shall have 4 downs to either score or earn another first down. First downs are earned each time the ball reaches the 2nd cone from where the ball was originally spotted on the first down. If a team fails to score or earn a first down, possession will go to the other team. Offensive teams may elect to punt on fourth downs.

• PASSING  All passes must be forward and must be received beyond the line of scrimmage (LOS). Only one (1) forward pass per play.

 Shovel passes are allowed but must be received beyond the LOS.

 The quarterback has seven (7) seconds to throw the ball. If a pass is not thrown within seven (7) seconds, the play is whistled dead and it is a loss of down. (Treat it like an incomplete pass).

 Once the ball is handed off, there is no seven (7) second rule.

 The referee will be verbally counting out the 7 seconds for the QB.

 If the QB’s flag is pulled before the ball leagues his or her hand, the play is ruled dead and the ball is spotted where the QB’s feet are.

 Interceptions may be returned except for during a PAT.

 If a pass is tipped/blocked by the defender and the QB catches the ball, the play is whistled dead and considered an incomplete pass.

 The QB may throw the ball to avoid a sack. Pass must go beyond the LOS

• RUNNING

 The QB cannot run beyond the line of scrimmage with the ball.

 Only direct handoffs behind the line of scrimmage are permitted. Teams may perform multiple handoffs as long as they remain behind the LOS.

 The player who received the handoff can throw the ball as long as he or she remains behind the line of scrimmage.

 The ball is spotted where the runner’s feet are when the flag is pulled, not where the ball is.

• NO RUN ZONE

 “No Run Zones” are located 5 yards before the goal line in each offensive direction.

 If the ball is spotted on or inside the “No Run Zone” the offense MUST use a pass play to achieve a first down or touchdown.

• PUNTS – A punt must be declared and cannot be faked. All punts are “free” punts. A team need not snap the ball during a punt, a dropped snap during a punt is not a fumble. Punts must be kicked. Punts cannot be thrown. Punts are “open” plays meaning, there are no Male/Female rules for punts. There is no minimum number of players required on the line of scrimmage during a punt. NO DOWNFIELD BLOCKING or BLOCKING AT THE LINE OF SCRIMMAGE. The kicking team may not cross the line of scrimmage until the ball is kicked. The receiving team may not raise hands or jump to block a punt. If a punt is “shanked” and caught it is a live ball and is returnable. If the ball comes into contact with the ground after it has been punted it is a dead ball, spotted at the point where it hit the ground, and may not be

returned. A punt through the end zone comes back to 10 paces/yards off the goal line. If a player drops the ball in the end zone, the ball is again spotted 10 paces/yards out from the goal line and is not counted as a safety.

• CONTINUANCE OF PLAY:

Play shall continue until:

 Ball-carrier has at least one flag pulled by an opponent (see flag specifics for the few exceptions/additions concerning flag pulling)

 Ball-carrier leaves the field of play

 Ball-carrier scores

 Ball touches the ground as a result of a fumble, punt or incomplete pass (the ball is not an extension of the arm. If the ball is pinned between the ground and the ball-carrier’s hand, the play is dead)

 Ball-Carrier’s knee touches the ground

• SPOT OF THE BALL – The ball will be spotted where the ball is at the time the ball carrier’s flag has been pulled. If the ball crosses the plane of the goal line before the ball carrier is touched, it will result in a touchdown (ball extension).

• TURNOVERS – A change of possession can only occur on an interception of a forward pass or a lateral. A fumble is not a turnover. The ball is dead at the point of the fumble and the offense retains possession. NEW RULE: A lateral is not a forward pass and can be picked off in mid-air. A picked off lateral will result in a change of possession, and can be returned for a touchdown.

• RUSHING THE PASSER  Players that rush the passer must be 7 yards from the line of scrimmage when the ball is snapped.

 Before each play, an official will mark off 7 yards from the LOS.

 The rusher has a clear path to the passer and any interference by the offense to impede his or her path will be considered screening.

 If a rusher leaves the rush line early (breaks the 7 yard area), the rusher may return to the rush line, reset and then legally rush the passer.

 Players not rushing the passer may defend on the line of scrimmage but may not enter the backfield unless the ball is handed off.

 Players rushing the passer may attempt to block the pass, however, NO contact may be made with the QB in any way.

• NO CONTACT AT THE LINE OF SCRIMMAGE – Players acting as offensive lineman must have hands behind their back or at their side when protecting their quarterback from pursuing defensive rushers. There is no contact at or behind the line of scrimmage. Offensive lineman can position their body at any particular angle in an attempt to the direct the rushers to a particular area, but they may not physically direct them or initiate contact. Defensive players cannot initiate contact with the offensive player. They must try to go around the player.

PENALTIES

Normal rules and penalties of the NCAA apply unless exceptions have been made herein.

Some Common Examples of Penalties:

• Illegal Contact – At or Behind the Line of Scrimmage: In cases where the person(s) acting as the offensive lineman, initiates any contact (at the ref’s discretion), it will be ruled a 5 pace/yard penalty from the line of scrimmage and we will replay the down. If this contact is deemed excessive by the ref, an “unnecessary roughness” penalty of 10 paces/yards can be assessed in addition to the “illegal contact”. Thus making the total penalty 15 paces/yards.

infraction. If this occurs during a pass play when the pass is incomplete, the penalty will be a mark off of 5 paces/yards from the line of scrimmage.

• Offsides/Illegal or Early Rush (Offensive): 5 paces/yards, play is ruled dead immediately, no option to decline, down is replayed.

• Offsides/Illegal or Early Rush (Defensive): Play will be a free play and will NOT BE BLOWN DEAD. If the penalty is accepted by the offense, there is a five pace/yard mark-off from the line of scrimmage against the defense and the down is repeated. If the penalty is accepted any yardage gained on the play will be nullified. If the penalty is declined, the play will stand and it will be the next down.

• Illegal Motion: Players may not be in motion towards the line of scrimmage when the ball is snapped. This will result in a dead ball, 5-yd penalty on the offense and repeat of the down.

• Offensive Picking/Interference: The offensive team may not initiate a pick/block while in motion. The penalty for this is a 5 pace/yard penalty from the line of scrimmage. If a catch is made after a clear pick, it will be ruled no catch, 5 pace/yard penalty from line of scrimmage. Remember: Some acceptable incidental contact will occur while running routes and within the normal course of play, and will not be called.

• Unnecessary Roughness (Offense): Unnecessary roughness by the offense during a play will result in a 10 yard/pace mark off from the line of scrimmage and a loss of down. If the penalty occurs after the play the penalty will result in a 10 pace/yard marked off at the end of the play. Extreme roughness will result in ejection from the game and or league if deemed necessary by the referee and league staff.

• Unnecessary Roughness (Defense): This includes any illegal tag such as grabbing jerseys or excessive pushing etc. If the play is “dead” at the time the penalty is committed and the offense has not advanced the ball the penalty will be 10 pace/yard marked off from the line of scrimmage and an automatic first down will be awarded. If the play is on going or the offense has advanced the ball at the time the penalty is committed the penalty will be 10 paces/yards added on to the end of the play and an automatic first down will be awarded. Extreme roughness will result in ejection from the game and or league if deemed necessary by the referee and league staff.

• Defensive Pass Interference: Ball is spotted at the point of the infraction and offense is awarded an automatic first down. If the pass interference is in the end zone, the ball comes out to the 1 pace/yard line and it will be 1st down.

• Defensive Holding: 10 pace/yard penalty from line of scrimmage, replay down. Offense can accept or decline the penalty.

• Defensive Checking: 5 pace/yard penalty from line of scrimmage, replay down. The “bump and run” will not be allowed. No player may initiate contact at the line of scrimmage. There is no 5-yard Bump Zone.

• Safeties: A safety will be scored if a player is:

1. – tagged down in their own end zone (not on a punt return)

2. -runs out of bounds in their own end zone

3. -snaps the ball out of the end zone

4. -if the offense fumbles the ball in their own end zone

As a result, the team on defense receives 2 points and the team on offense must now punt a “free” kick from their own 10 paces/yard line. Also, a player having intercepted a pass or received a punt in the end zone cannot be tagged in the end zone for a safety unless he/she has previously crossed the plane of the end zone with the ball.

• Intentional Grounding: This penalty will be called when a passer facing an imminent loss of yardage because of pressure from the defense, throws a forward pass, without a realistic chance of completion. This will result a loss of down (i.e. if it was 1st down during the penalty, it is now 2nd down). And the ball being spotted at the point of infraction (QB’s point of release).

• Fighting – Fighting is not allowed and will NOT be tolerated. All parties involved in fighting will be subject to immediate ejection from the game at the referees discretion and subject to ejection from the league at CSSC staff discretion.

FLAG SPECIFICS

1) No flag guarding ***The play/down counts, and the penalty will result in a 5 paces/yard penalty from the spot of infraction/spot the penalty occurred. Note: If the flag guarding occurs on fourth down and the resulting yardage, after the penalty is marked off 5 yards/paces, does not make a first down then it is a turnover on downs. Defensive player returning an interception, who flag guards, will be penalized 5 paces/yards from the spot of infraction.

2) Shirt must be tucked in and flags must be securely attached. Loose hanging articles (i.e. sweatshirts, long T-shirts, etc.) that are held/ripped will not result in a holding penalty, unless in ref’s eyes player was not attempting to go for flag.

3) Any ball-carrier whose flags are (in ref’s opinion) not accessible to be pulled will be down at 1st point of contact with the defense.

4) Any ball-carrier who has a flag or both flags missing for whatever reason (falls out, accidentally pulled before reception, not noticed before snap, etc.) will be down at the first point of contact.

5) Players may leave their feet to pull flag.

6) Spin moves will be allowed.

7) Belt grabbing will result in a 5 paces/yard penalty from end of play.

• Any belt grabbing at the end of a half or game will result in a 5 paces/yard penalty from point of infraction and replay of down. If this penalty occurs within 5 paces/yard of the end zone, the ball will be spotted at the one yard line and the offense will receive one play.

MISCELLANEOUS

 If the player calling the cadence does not receive the snap, the play will not stand and will result in a 5 pace/yard penalty and repeat of the down.

 One person must call the cadence and receive the snap – violation of this will result in a 5 pace/yard penalty and repeat of down.

 Quarterbacks can run the ball at ANY time on any down and distance. The defense cannot cross the line of scrimmage until either the runner crosses the line of scrimmage or a rusher comes from the 7 yard line.

 Silent snaps will not be allowed – violation of this will result in a 5 pace/yard penalty and repeat of down.

 The QB may not be in motion and then receive the snap – this will result in a 5 pace/yard penalty and repeat of down.

 If the QB crosses the line of scrimmage and then throws a forward pass the defense can either decline the penalty or it will be a 5 pace/yard penalty from the line of scrimmage and loss of down (i.e. if it was 1st down during the penalty, it is now 2nd down).

 If the ball hits the ground on the snap for either a pass or running play, the play is “dead”, the ball is spotted where it hit the ground, and it is a loss of down (i.e. if it was 1st down during the bad snap, it is now 2nd down).

 The QB may NOT snap the ball to him/herself. If the QB does snap to him/herself, play will stop immediately and it will result in a 5-yd penalty and repeat the down.

 Loss of down penalties which occur on 4th down will result in change of possession.

 Receivers need only one foot in bounds for a reception. If in the referees eyes a receiver would be able to legally catch a pass but, was pushed out of bounds by a defender while in the air a catch will be awarded.

 Receivers intentionally leaving the field of play are ineligible to receive a pass if they are the first person to touch the ball. This includes the back of the end zone.

touches the ground. Diving into or over a defensive player will result in the player being down at the point of takeoff and there will be a 5 pace/yard mark-off against the Offense and loss of down.

 A player who catches the ball and lands with 1 or 2 feet across the goal-line, but is tagged after possession and before he/she pulls the ball across the plane of the goal will not be awarded a touchdown. The ball will be spotted at the point of where the ball was at the time he/she was called “down”.

 Only the ball needs to cross the plane of the goal-line in order for a touchdown to be awarded.

PLAYOFFS

• Playoffs will follow the last week of regular season and will be single elimination.

• SEEDING – Teams will be seeded based upon their winning percentage throughout the season. In most cases all teams will advance to the playoffs as long as they are not in violation of the forfeit policy. *Note: In some situations the last ranked team in the league may not be eligible for playoffs. This will be decided on a league by league basis.

• PLAYOFF GAMES – Playoff games will follow the same format during regulation as the regular season. If teams are tied at the end of regulation in the playoffs, overtime will be used. Non-roster players will not be allowed for playoffs. All players must have signed the waiver, and/or have been placed at the roster at the beginning of the season.

• OVERTIME – In the playoffs the Four-Downs and Out format will apply. The beginning of the game will start with the CSSC staff using an “odd/even”, or coin flip with the winning team deciding on offense or defense, (there is no option to decline). The losing team will decide which end zone to use. Teams will attempt to score in the same end zone. Each team will then have 4 downs to score from 10 paces/yards out from the goal-line. If a team scores, they will have the opportunity to go for one or two on the PAT. A female must be used once within the first three plays or on the 1st and 4th downs when applicable. An interception will result in a team losing its possession. The game will be decided when one team scores more points in the rotation. No 1st downs will be awarded except in the case of a penalty. Interceptions will result in a turnover and may not be returned for any points. If the score is still tied after two complete overtime periods, each team must attempt a two point conversion after they score a touchdown. From this point on all subsequent overtime periods will continue with each team attempting a two point conversion after they score a touchdown.

LEAGUE POLICIES

GAMES:

During the regular season one game will be played within time allotted. Games will be divided into two 20-minute halves with a brief half-time break. During the regular season, no overtime will be used. The clock runs continuously during the game with the exception of the last 2 minutes depending on the score. Each team is awarded 2 time-outs per game to be used at any time.

REFS: Each week CSSC will provide referee(s) for each game (Paid Ref Leagues ONLY).

Each week your team is responsible for reffing either the game before or after yours. You will be scheduled to either send two refs early or leave two refs after your game, or each team will need to leave one referee after your game. This will be detailed on your schedule (NO Ref Leagues).

FORFEITS:

If your team forfeits a game during the season, the following rules apply:

First Offense: Loss of game.

Second Offense: Loss of game and staff reserves the right to remove team from playoffs.

Third Offense: Removal from the league

Any team that forfeits more than once also forfeits any guarantee or right to a certain number of guaranteed games.

If you know in advance that your team is going to forfeit a game, we encourage you to call our office, at 312.850.8196, in order to help us schedule your opponent a game. However, this does not mean that your team will not receive the loss as a forfeit.

Teams have until ten minutes past the designated start time to field a full squad (or the league minimum of players required according to rules). If at that time a team is unable to field a legal team, it will be up to the staff and the opposing captain to determine whether a team will receive a forfeit win or if a team will allow the opposing team to play a legal game with less than the league minimum of players required according to the rules.

STANDINGS:

The updated standings will be posted weekly starting after the third week of play. The standings will display each teams rank within its skill level. Rank is based on each team’s winning percentage throughout the season.

PLAYOFFS:

roughly 3 days before their league. Teams will not receive emails for any other weeks of playoffs! It is ALL TEAM’S responsibility to check the playoff brackets at the league to find out what time they will be playing the following week if they win. In playoffs it is not uncommon, (and in some cases will be necessary), for teams to have more than one game in a given night. No non-roster players will be allowed during playoffs. All players must have signed the waiver or be on the roster by the second week of the season in order to be eligible for playoffs. All eligible teams will make the playoffs. Playoff eligible teams will be determined on a league by league basis. Teams that have violated the forfeit policy during the course of regular season will not be eligible for playoffs. In certain situations teams at or near the bottom of the standings may not advance to the playoffs. Check with CSSC league coordinator to see if this applies to your league. Playoffs are single elimination.

Seeding: Teams are seeded according to winning percentage, point differential and various other criteria. Teams may be dropped from their regular season level based on the above criteria. Teams may play more than one game per day/night, and/or play games on days/nights other than your regularly scheduled league day/night if necessary. CSSC reserves the right to schedule playoff games on days other than teams regularly scheduled league night.

WAIVERS:

In order to participate in the league, each participant must sign the team waiver. Waivers are provided and must be completed and handed in no later than the first night of play. Players not present the first week of play will still be required to sign a waiver with our staff before participating. Players must sign the waiver in order to be eligible for playoffs.

PLAYER ELIGIBILITY:

Any questions regarding rules, policies, or eligibility of players must be addressed before the start of the game. Any team that would like to challenge the eligibility of an opposing player must do so before the start of the game. Players who have been placed on the roster and signed the waiver are eligible for playoffs. A formal protest may be filed before a game if an opposing player’s eligibility is in question. The player in question will be required to provide his/her player information (name, address, phone #, and signature) in writing to a CSSC staff member prior to the start of the game. This qualifies as an official protest. Any protest made during a game or after a game will NOT be considered a formal protest. The game will then be played in its entirety as scheduled. Teams will be notified of all rulings on the identified eligibility discrepancy by the following business day – decisions will not be made on site. If the protest is proven to be legitimate, it will result in the forfeiture of the game in question. Games subsequent to the protested game may be rescheduled. The above procedure will also apply for any other “logged” protests. All rulings by CSSC staff are considered final.

SPORTSMANSHIP:

deemed unacceptable by staff may result in suspension and/or ejection from a game or the league. Abuse of officials, referees, and other staff will not be tolerated. CSSC reserves the right to remove a player from a game or a league if they are considered to be bringing down the quality of the league. CSSC will not tolerate fighting! Fighting will be an automatic ejection from any game and in most cases ejection from the league for the remainder of the season.

STAFF:

To coordinate and run the league, our refs and/or staff will be available at all times to help the league run as smoothly as possible. If you have questions regarding schedules, policies, rule interpretations, directions to the bar, etc. please ask.

LEAGUE CANCELLATION/RAINOUT:

Please call our weather hotline for the most up to date information on any cancellations (312.773.7100)

Leagues may be cancelled due to existing weather conditions, dangerous or unplayable field conditions, facility constraints, etc. CSSC staff makes every effort to play all scheduled games, thus we will not cancel games until absolutely necessary. Therefore, if you are calling concerning a decision on a cancellation, remember we will not have an answer until close to the start of the league.

If the league is cancelled, CSSC staff will change the voicemail immediately (312-335-9596 x511). CSSC will then email or text all of the captains to let them know. It is then the captain’s responsibility to inform all teammates of the cancellation. If a league is cancelled on site, CSSC staff will attempt to contact those teams still scheduled to play the remainder of the league day/night. Depending on the time of cancellation, some teams will have to be notified on site. If we do cancel, follow next week’s schedule unless otherwise notified, (i.e. If April 13 is cancelled teams should follow the April 20 schedule for their next game). The games that are cancelled will be made up towards the end of the season if time allows. In extreme circumstances, CSSC reserves the right to run a shortened season without a refund. CSSC reserves the right to move games or weeks to an alternative location when deemed necessary without compensation. CSSC also reserves the right to schedule games on days other than your regularly scheduled league day/night if necessary.

PRIZES/ JERSEYS: Each team will receive a pre-bundled set of colored jerseys with various sizes at the first night of the league. Additional shirts and sizes can be purchased from the CSSC for an additional change. The top teams in each division will receive a prize of great emotional, spiritual, and most importantly, social value.

These policies are designed to make the league run as smoothly and safely as possible, and provide continuity for its participants. Each player in the league is responsible for this information: please advise your team of these rules and thanks for playing.

SPORTS LEAGUE OFFICIALS ASSOCIATION

OFFICIAL COED FLAG FOOTBALL RULES

OVERVIEW

8 players on the field (5 Males/3 females) – You can play with a minimum of six players (at least two must be women and you can never have more than 5 men)

Two 20-minute halves

A first down will be achieved each time the ball reaches the 2nd cone from where the ball was originally spotted on first down

6 point touchdowns

Choice of 1 or 2 extra points on PAT’s (3 paces/yards for 1 Pt., 10 paces/yards for 2 pts.)

Dead ball on all fumbles

Quarterbacks cannot snap the ball to themselves

Running clock except for final two minutes of 2nd half

Ties during regular season stay as a tie

ONLY 2-Point conversion attempts may be intercepted and returned for 2 points

Lateralsmay be intercepted and run back for a touchdown or yardage.

Referees are responsible for shouting out the rush count for teams

The rush will be as follows:

“1-CORONA LIGHT, 2-CORONA LIGHTS, 3-CORONA LIGHTS, 4-CORONA LIGHTS, 5-CORONA LIGHTS, GO!!” Defense may rush on the word “GO”.

Players acting as offensive linemen must have their hands behind their back or at their side when protecting the quarterback from rushers.

There is no contact at or behind the line of scrimmage.

Four-Downs-and-Out format applies for ties in the playoffs.

Receivers need only one foot in-bounds with possession of the ball to be considered a catch

Rule Clarification – The clock does not stop for a 2 minute warning unless there is a dead ball situation when the clock hits 2 minutes.

Rule Clarification- Offsides on the defense will be a free play for the offense. After the play the offense will decide to take the 5 yard penalty or the result of the play

COIN FLIP/BEGINNING OF GAME

PAID REFEREE LEAGUES

• Each week CSSC will provide referee(s) for each game.

NO-REF LEAGUES

• Each week your team is responsible for reffing either the game before or after yours. You will be scheduled to either send two refs early or leave two refs after your game, or each team will need to leave one referee after your game. This will be detailed on your schedule. Failure to adhere to the reffing responsibility will result in a loss of your game and potential removal from the playoffs or

league. “Playing for reffing responsibility” is not an option or allowed. Every team is responsible for one or two refs depending on the ref schedule.

TEAM SIZE

• Each team shall field 8 players on the field at one time (no more than 5 men). CSSC rules allow a team to play a legal game shorthanded with 6 players, (at least 2 females). Teams may have as many players on their roster as they want. There is no maximum limit on the amount of females on the field at one time. All rosters must be finalized by the second week of the regular season. Players added after the second week, that are not on the team roster or waiver, will not be eligible for playoffs.

FORFEITS

• Teams will have until 10 minutes past the designated start time to field a legal team. Shorthanded teams may play a legal game with a minimum of 6 players, with at least 2 of them being females. Teams fielding less than 6 players or without at least 2 women will receive a forfeit. Exception: Teams may play a “legal game” with less than 6 players or less than 2 females with the opposing teams consent. Teams who agree to play under these conditions will lose the option of receiving a forfeit win. Teams may pick up players during the regular season in order to field a full team so long as the number of players picked up does not exceed their opponent’s number of players. The use of non-roster players will not be allowed during playoffs. Each team’s waiver will be used as its final roster. Only players on the waivers may play in the playoffs.

SUBSTITUTIONS

• If a team substitutes players during the game, they must do so from the same sideline the entire game. Eligible receivers must be on the playing field before the cadence is started.

TIME

 an incomplete pass is thrown

 a player ends a play by going out of bounds

 either team scores (clock will remain off until the opposing team snaps the ball after the PAT attempt; the clock does not run during extra points)

 change of possession

 a penalty which must be marked off occurs

 A team calls a time out.

 The clock will not stop for a “2 minute warning” unless there is a dead ball situation when the clock hits 2 minutes.

***THE CLOCK DOES NOT STOP ON FIRST DOWNS OR FUMBLES.

** If a team is up by 17 points or more, the clock runs continuously during the last two minutes of play.

STANDINGS

• Standings will be posted at the league and on-line at: www.chicagosocial.com within a few days after the games are completed.

CO-ED SPECIFIC RULES

• There is no maximumlimit to the amount of females allowed on the field. To ensure coed participation, a penalty will ensue if the offensive team fails to use a female as an operative player within 3 consecutive downs (This does not reset after a first down…it is every three plays).

An Operative Player is defined as a player who:

 is the intended receiver in the eyes of the official

 runs the ball as the primary runner (does not have to cross line of scrimmage)

 receives the snap as the QB and throws the ball forward towards the line of scrimmage. (ball does not have to cross line of scrimmage)

 receives the snap and immediately spikes the ball at her feet in order to stop the clock in the last 2 minutes.

An Operative Player is NOT defined as a player who:

 hands off the football

 snaps the ball into play

 receives a hand-off only to give it back to a male before crossing the line of scrimmage

Examples:

 a pass deflected by a male and caught by a female isa female play

 a pass intended for a female (in the eyes of the referee) that is deflected by a female, and caught by a male countsas a female play

 a pass intentionally grounded by a female in the last 2 minutes of the second half in order to stop the clock countsas a female play

 if a female pitches the ball to a male behind the line of scrimmage, it will not result in a female play

 if a female pitches the ball to a male behind the line of scrimmage, at which point he throws it to a female, it will count as a female play

 if it is a forced female play and a male is sacked as quarterback, it will count as a female play. The next play is then ruled open. This only applies on forced female plays.

Plays utilizing a female and resulting in “loss of down” penalties will still be considered “female” plays.

The slate is clean for extra points and punts and everyone is eligible.

GENERAL RULES

GAME EQUIPMENT

1) Game ball must meet NFHS and NCAA Ball Specification guideline as Followed:

The ball shall meet the following specification:

Length–10 7/8 inches-11 7/16 inches

Circumference Width– 20 ¾-21 ¼

Circumference length–27 ¾ -28 ½

Weight of 14 to 15 ounces

Inflation pressure of 12 ½ -13 ½ pounds per square inch

• FIRST DOWNS– Each team shall have 4 downs to either score or earn another first down. First downs are earned each time the ball reaches the 2nd cone from where the ball was originally spotted on the first down. If a team fails to score or earn a first down, possession will go to the other team. Offensive teams may elect to punt on fourth downs.

• PUNTS– A punt must be declared and cannot be faked. All punts are “free” punts. A team need not snap the ball during a punt, a dropped snap during a punt is not a fumble. Punts must be kicked. Punts cannot be thrown. Punts are “open” plays meaning, there are no Male/Female rules for punts. There is no minimum number of players required on the line of scrimmage during a punt. NO DOWNFIELD BLOCKING or BLOCKING AT THE LINE OF SCRIMMAGE. The kicking team may not cross the line of scrimmage until the ball is kicked. The receiving team may not raise hands or jump to block a punt. If a punt is “shanked” and caught it is a live ball and is returnable. If the ball comes into contact with the ground after it has been punted it is a dead ball, spotted at the point where it hit the ground, and may not be returned. A punt through the end zone comes back to 10 paces/yards off the goal line. If a player drops the ball in the end zone, the ball is again spotted 10 paces/yards out from the goal line and is not counted as a safety.

• CONTINUANCE OF PLAY:

Play shall continue until:

 Ball-carrier has at least one flag pulled by an opponent (see flag specifics for the few exceptions/additions concerning flag pulling)

 Ball-carrier leaves the field of play

 Ball-carrier scores

 Ball-Carrier’s knee touches the ground

• TURNOVERS– A change of possession can only occur on an interception of a forward pass or a lateral. A fumble is not a turnover. The ball is dead at the point of the fumble and the offense retains possession. NEW RULE: A lateral is not a forward pass and can be picked off in mid-air. A picked off lateral will result in a change of possession, and can be returned for a touchdown.

• RUSH – In order to better standardize the rush, all referees will be responsible for shouting out the rush count for both teams. The rush will be as follows: “1-CORONA LIGHT, 2-CORONA LIGHTS, 3-CORONA LIGHTS, 4-CORONA LIGHTS, 5-CORONA LIGHTS, GO!!” (Other acceptable variations can be used: i.e. 1-One thousand…, 1-Mississippi…, etc.) Each referee will have a different pace and type of count but as long as their count is consistent there will be no standard speed that will be asked of them. The defensive team may cross the line of scrimmage after the ref/counter says “Go”.

PENALTIES

Normal rules and penalties of the NCAA apply unless exceptions have been made herein.

Some Common Examples of Penalties:

• Illegal Contact – Down Field: If the illegal contact occurs during play when the offense is advancing the ball the penalty will be a mark off of 5 paces/yards from the point where the ball carrier is at the time of the infraction. If this occurs during a pass play when the pass is incomplete, the penalty will be a mark off of 5 paces/yards from the line of scrimmage.

• Offsides/Illegal or Early Rush (Offensive): 5 paces/yards, play is ruled dead immediately, no option to decline, down is replayed.

• Illegal Motion: Players may not be in motion towards the line of scrimmagewhen the ball is snapped. This will result in a dead ball, 5-yd penalty on the offense and repeat of the down.

will be awarded. Extreme roughness will result in ejection from the game and or league if deemed necessary by the referee and league staff.

• Defensive Holding: 10 pace/yard penalty from line of scrimmage, replay down. Offense can accept or decline the penalty.

• Safeties: A safety will be scored if a player is:

1. – tagged down in their own end zone (not on a punt return)

2. -runs out of bounds in their own end zone

3. -snaps the ball out of the end zone

4. -if the offense fumbles the ball in their own end zone

• Fighting– Fighting is not allowed and will NOT be tolerated. All parties involved in fighting will be subject to immediate ejection from the game at the referees discretion and subject to ejection from the league at CSSC staff discretion.

FLAG SPECIFICS

3) Any ball-carrier whose flags are (in ref’s opinion) not accessible to be pulled will be down at 1st point of contact with the defense.

5) Players may leave their feet to pull flag.

6) Spin moves will be allowed.

7) Belt grabbing will result in a 5 paces/yard penalty from end of play.

MISCELLANEOUS

 If the player calling the cadence does not receive the snap, the play will not stand and will result in a 5 pace/yard penalty and repeat of the down.

 One person must call the cadence and receive the snap – violation of this will result in a 5 pace/yard penalty and repeat of down.

 Quarterbacks can run the ball at ANY time on any down and distance. The defense cannot cross the line of scrimmage until either the rush count expires or the runner crosses the line of scrimmage.

 Silent snaps will not be allowed – violation of this will result in a 5 pace/yard penalty and repeat of down.

 The QB may not be in motion and then receive the snap – this will result in a 5 pace/yard penalty and repeat of down.

 The QB may NOT snap the ball to him/herself. If the QB does snap to him/herself, play will stop immediately and it will result in a 5-yd penalty and repeat the down.

 Loss of down penalties which occur on 4th down will result in change of possession.

 Receivers intentionally leaving the field of play are ineligible to receive a pass if they are the first person to touch the ball. This includes the back of the end zone.

 Diving is allowed. Offensive players may dive to further advance the ball as long as they do not initiate contact. When this occurs the ball will be spotted where it is whenever the ball carrier is touched with two hands his/her knee touches the ground, or when the ball touches the ground. Diving into or over a defensive player will result in the player being down at the point of takeoff and there will be a 5 pace/yard mark-off against the Offense and loss of down.

 Only the ball needs to cross the plane of the goal-line in order for a touchdown to be awarded.

PLAYOFFS

• Playoffs will follow the last week of regular season and will be single elimination.

LEAGUE POLICIES

GAMES:

REFS: Each week CSSC will provide referee(s) for each game (Paid Ref Leagues ONLY).

FORFEITS:

If your team forfeits a game during the season, the following rules apply:

First Offense: Loss of game.

Second Offense: Loss of game and staff reserves the right to remove team from playoffs.

Third Offense: Removal from the league

Any team that forfeits more than once also forfeits any guarantee or right to a certain number of guaranteed games.

STANDINGS:

PLAYOFFS:

roughly 3 days before their league. Teams will not receive a call for any other weeks of playoffs! It is ALL TEAM’S responsibility to check the playoff brackets at the league to find out what time they will be playing the following week if they win. In playoffs it is not uncommon, (and in some cases will be necessary), for teams to have more than one game in a given night. No non-roster players will be allowed during playoffs. All players must have signed the waiver or be on the roster by the second week of the season in order to be eligible for playoffs. All eligible teams will make the playoffs. Playoff eligible teams will be determined on a league by league basis. Teams that have violated the forfeit policy during the course of regular season will not be eligible for playoffs. In certain situations teams at or near the bottom of the standings may not advance to the playoffs. Check with CSSC league coordinator to see if this applies to your league. Playoffs are single elimination.

WAIVERS:

PLAYER ELIGIBILITY:

SPORTSMANSHIP:

STAFF:

LEAGUE CANCELLATION/RAINOUT:

Please call our weather hotline for the most up to date information on any cancellations (312.773.7100)

PRIZES/ JERSEYS: Each team will receive a pre-bundled set of colored jerseys with various sizes at the first night of the league. Additional shirts and sizes can be purchased from the CSSC for an additional charge. The top teams in each division will receive a prize of great emotional, spiritual, and most importantly, social value.

SPORTS LEAGUE OFFICIALS ASSOCIATION

OFFICIAL COED INDOOR FOOTBALL RULES

(YARDAGE FOR 1ST DOWNS)

OVERVIEW

7 players on the field (4 Males / 3 Females). You can play with a minimum of five players (at least two must be women and you can never have more than 4 men)

Two 20-minute halves (45 Minute Games – 1 minutes half time)

FIRST DOWNS ARE ACHIEVED AT DESIGNATED MARKERS (One at each “ten” yard line and another at mid field)

6 point touchdowns

All legal catches within the “boundaries” of the playing surface are considered “in bounds”

Balls caught off the ceiling netting ARE legal catches

Choice of 1 or 2 extra points on PAT’s (3 paces / yards for 1 Pt., 10 paces / yards for 2 Pts.)

Dead ball on all fumbles or contact with the walls

Quarterbacks cannot snap the ball to themselves

Running clock except for final two minutes of the 2nd half

Ties during regular season stay as a tie

ONE REFEREE WILL BE RESPONSIBLE FOR SHOUTING OUT THE RUSH COUNT FOR BOTH TEAMS. THE RUSH WILL BE AS FOLLOWS:

“1-CORONA, 2-CORONA, 3-CORONA, 4-CORONA, 5-CORONA, GO!!”

PLAYERS ACTING AS OFFENSIVE LINEMAN MUST HAVE HANDS BEHIND THEIR BACK WHEN PROTECTING THEIR QUARTERBACK FROM PURSUING DEFENSIVE RUSHERS. THERE IS NO CONTACT AT OR BEHIND THE LINE OF SCRIMMAGE.

RULE CLARIFICATION: The clock does not stop for a 2 minute warning unless there is a dead ball situation when the clock hits 2 minutes. RULE CLARIFICATION: Offsides on the defense will be a free play for the offense. After the play the offense will decide to take the 5 yard penalty or the result of the play

COIN FLIP / BEGINNING OF GAME

 The team that wins the coin flip (or a one-time Ro-Sham-Bo) at the start of the game will have first choice of Ball/ Defense in the first half. The team that started the game on defense will start the second half on offense. There are no kick-offs. Play starts at a designated “STARTING SPOT” (10 paces / yard line).

TEAM SIZE

 Each team shall field no more than 7 players with at least 2 women (4 men, 3 women) on the field at any one time. You can NEVER play with more than four men on the field at one time. Teams not able to field a “full” team may play with a minimum of up to 5 players (3 men and 2 women). Teams not able to field the minimum number of players (5) may play a “legal” game with the consent of the opposing captain and / or league staff. (Please not: if a team arrives with less than 5 players a “forfeit win” is also an option for the opposing captain.) Games will start no later than 10-minutes past the scheduled start time. At that time, it is up to the referee or staff member and opposing captain to allow play or call a forfeit.

 If a team substitutes players during the game, they must do so from the same sideline/bench the entire game.

 Eligible receivers must be on the playing field before the cadence starts.

FORFEITS

• Teams will have until 10 minutes past the designated start time to field a legal team. Shorthanded teams may play a legal game with a minimum of 5 players, with at least 2 of them being females. Teams fielding less than 5 players or without at least 2 women will receive a forfeit. Exception: Teams may play a “legal game” with less than 5 players or less than 2 females with the opposing teams consent. Teams who agree to play under these conditions will lose the option of receiving a forfeit win. Teams may pick up/recruit players during the regular season in order to field a full team so long as the number of players picked up does not exceed their opponent’s number of players. Teams cannot ever have more than four men on the field at one time. The use of non-roster players will not be allowed during playoffs. Each team’s waiver will be used as its final roster. Only players on the waivers may play in the playoffs. A formal protest may be filed before a game if an opposing player’s eligibility is in question. The player in question will be required to provide his/her player information (name, address, phone #, and signature) in writing to a CSSC staff member prior to the start of the game. This qualifies as an official protest. Any protest made during a game or after a game will NOT be considered a formal protest. The game will then be played in its entirety as scheduled.

CO-ED RULES

An Operative Player is defined as a player who:

 is the intended receiver in the eyes of the official

 runs the ball as the primary runner (does not have to cross line of scrimmage)

 receives the snap as the QB and throws the ball forward towards the line of scrimmage. (ball does not have to cross line of scrimmage)

 receives the snap and immediately spikes the ball at her feet in order to stop the clock in the last 2 minutes.

An Operative Player is NOT defined as a player who:

 hands off the football

 snaps the ball into play

 receives a hand-off only to give it back to a male before crossing the line of scrimmage

Examples:

 a pass deflected by a male and caught by a female is a female play

 a pass intended for a female (in the eyes of the referee) that is deflected by a female, and caught by a male counts as a female play

 a pass intentionally grounded by a female in the last 2 minutes of the second half in order to stop the clock counts as a female play

 if a female pitches the ball to a male behind the line of scrimmage, it will not result in a female play

 if a female pitches the ball to a male behind the line of scrimmage, at which point he throws it to a female, it will count as a female play

 if it is a forced female play and a male is sacked as quarterback, it will count as a female play. The next play is then ruled open. This only applies on forced female plays.

Plays utilizing a female and resulting in “loss of down” penalties will still be considered “female” plays.

The slate is clean for extra points and everyone is eligible.

THE DREADED SACK

If a male is the QB on a play which could either be to a male or female and the QB is sacked the ball is spotted where he was sacked and the play stands as a male play, no matter who was the intended receiver. If a team was forced to use a female as the operative player and the male QB is sacked the play stands as a female play and the offensive team does NOT have to use a female on the next play.

GAME EQUIPMENT

1) Game ball must meet NFHS and NCAA Ball Specification guideline as Followed:

The ball shall meet the following specification:

Length–10 7/8 inches-11 7/16 inches

Circumference Width– 20 ¾-21 ¼

Circumference length–27 ¾ -28 ½

Weight of 14 to 15 ounces

Inflation pressure of 12 ½ -13 ½ pounds per square inch

TIME

• Play will be divided into (2) 20-minute halves. Teams flip flop direction at the start of the second half. There is only a one minute half time. The team that started the game on defense will start the second half on offense. Teams will have 2 time-outs per game that may be used at any time. There will be a running clock until the final 2 minutes of the second half maintained by a referee. During the first 38 minutes, the clock runs continuously with the exception of time-outs and serious injury. If a team calls a timeout after a touchdown the clock will not start again until the defensive team takes possession and snaps the ball on offense. During the final 2 minutes of the game, the referee shall stop the game clock if:

 an incomplete pass is thrown

 a player ends a play by going out of bounds

 either team scores (clock will remain off until the opposing team snaps the ball after the PAT attempt; the clock does not run during extra points)

 change of possession

 a penalty which must be marked off occurs

 A team calls a time out.

 The clock will not stop for a “2 minute warning” unless there is a dead ball situation when the clock hits 2 minutes.

***THE CLOCK DOES NOT STOP ON FIRST DOWNS OR FUMBLES.

** If a team is up by 17 points or more, the clock runs continuously during the last two minutes of play.

THE GAMES / SCORING

Games ending in a tie score will be recorded as tie games during regular season play. Please refer to the OVERTIME section for ties during the playoffs. Touchdowns are rewarded 6 pts. Extra points – 3 paces / yards off the goal line = 1 pt., 10 paces/yards = 2pts. 2-point conversion attempts may be intercepted and returned for 2 points with the defense retaining possession at their 10 pace/yard line. One-point conversion attempts CANNOT be returned.

FIRST DOWNS

Each team shall have 4 downs to either score or earn another first down. First downs are earned each time the ball reaches the one of the marked first down cones (there will be one placed at each “ten” yard line and another at midfield… If a team fails to score or earn a first down, possession will go to the other team. If a team fails to score or earn a first down, possession will go to the other team. Offensive teams may elect to “forfeit possession” or “punt” on fourth downs.

“FORFEIT OF POSSESSION/PUNT”

A “forfeit of possession/punt” can be declared on all 4th downs by the offense (i.e. Arena football equivalent to a punt). If a team decides to “forfeit possession/punt” the ball will be given to the opposing team and a designated spot. If a team has not crossed midfield when they declare “forfeit of possession/punt” the ball will be placed at midfield. If a team has crossed midfield (essentially achieved a first down prior to this set of downs) when they declare “forfeit of possession/punt” the ball will be placed at the “10” yard line and the opposing team will take over from there.

TURNOVER OF DOWNS

If the offense chooses to “play” on fourth down, and does not obtain either a first down or touchdown, the defense will take over at that spot (the line of scrimmage).

CONTINUANCE OF PLAY

Play shall continue until:

 Ball-carrier has at least one flag pulled by an opponent (see flag specifics for the few exceptions/additions concerning flag pulling)

 Ball-carrier leaves the field of play

 Ball-carrier scores

 Ball touches the ground as a result of a fumble or incomplete pass (the ball is not an extension of the arm. If the ball is pinned between the ground and the ball-carrier’s hand, the play is dead)

 Ball-Carrier’s knee touches the ground

TURNOVERS

A change of possession can only occur on an interception of a forward pass or a lateral. A fumble is not a turnover. The ball is dead at the point of the fumble and the offense retains possession. NEW RULE: A lateral is not a forward pass and can be picked off in mid-air. A picked off lateral will result in a change of possession, and can be returned for a touchdown.

RUSH

In order to better standardize the rush, all referees will be responsible for shouting out the rush count for both teams. The rush will be as follows: “1-CORONA, 2-CORONA, 3-CORONA, 4-CORONA, 5-CORONA, GO!!” (Other acceptable variations can be used: (i.e. 1 – One-thousand…, 1 – Mississippi…, etc.) When the ref / counter says “Go”, the defense may cross the line of scrimmage and pursue the quarterback.

NO CONTACT AT THE LINE OF SCRIMMAGE

Players acting as offensive lineman must have hands behind their back or at their side when protecting their quarterback from pursuing defensive rushers. There is no contact at or behind the line of scrimmage. Offensive lineman can position their body at any particular angle in an attempt to the direct the rushers to a particular area, but they may not physically direct them or initiate contact. Defensive players cannot initiate contact with the offensive player. They must try to go around the player.

PENALTIES

Normal rules and penalties of the NCAA apply unless exceptions have been made herein.

• Offsides/Illegal or Early Rush (Offensive): 5 paces/yards, play is ruled dead immediately, no option to decline, the down is replayed.

• Illegal Motion: Players may not be in motion towards the line of scrimmage when the ball is snapped. This will result in a dead ball, 5-yd penalty on the offense and repeat of the down.

• Unnecessary Roughness (Defense): This includes any illegal tag such as grabbing jerseys or excessive pushing etc. If the play is “dead” at the time the penalty is committed and the offense has not advanced the ball the penalty will be 10 pace/yard marked off from the line of scrimmage and an automatic first down will be awarded. If the play is ongoing or the offense has advanced the ball at the time the penalty is committed the penalty will be 10 paces/yards added on to the end of the play and an automatic first down will be awarded. Extreme roughness will result in ejection from the game and or league if deemed necessary by the referee and league staff.

• Defensive Holding: 10 pace/yard penalty from line of scrimmage, replay down. Offense can accept or decline the penalty.

• Safeties: A safety will be scored if a player is:

1. – tagged down in their own end zone

2. -runs out of bounds in their own end zone

3. -snaps the ball out of the end zone

4. -if the offense fumbles the ball in their own end zone

As a result, the team on defense receives 2 points and will take over on their own “10” yard line for a first down.

FLAG SPECIFICS

3) Any ball-carrier whose flags are (in ref’s opinion) not accessible to be pulled will be down at 1st point of contact with the defense.

5) Players may leave their feet to pull flag.

6) Spin moves are allowed.

7) Belt grabbing will result in a 5 paces/yard penalty from end of play.

MISCELLANEOUS

 If the player calling the cadence does not receive the snap, the play will not stand and will result in a 5 pace/yard penalty and repeat of the down.

 One person must call the cadence and receive the snap – violation of this will result in a 5 pace/yard penalty and repeat of down.

 Quarterbacks can run the ball at ANY time on any down and distance. The defense cannot cross the line of scrimmage until either the rush count expires or the runner crosses the line of scrimmage. Silent snaps will not be allowed – violation of this will result in a 5 pace/yard penalty and repeat of down.

 The QB may not be in motion and then receive the snap – this will result in a 5 pace/yard penalty and repeat of down.

 The QB may NOT snap the ball to him/herself. If the QB does snap to him/herself, play will stop immediately and it will result in a 5-yd penalty and repeat the down.

 Loss of down penalties which occur on 4th down will result in change of possession.

 Receivers need only one foot in bounds for a reception. If in the referees eyes a receiver would be able to legally catch a pass, but was pushed out of bounds by a defender while in the air a catch will be awarded.

 Receivers intentionally leaving the field of play are ineligible to receive a pass if they are the first person to touch the ball. This includes the back of the end zone.

 Only the ball needs to cross the plane of the goal-line in order for a touchdown to be awarded.

PLAYOFFS

• Playoffs will follow the last week of regular season and will be single elimination.

• OVERTIME – In the playoffs the “Four-Downs and Out” format will apply. The beginning of the game will start with the CSSC staff using an “odd/even”, or coin flip with the winning team deciding on offense or defense, (there is no option to decline). The losing team will decide which end zone to use. Teams will attempt to score in the same end zone for the duration of the overtime. Each team will then have 4 downs to score from 10 paces/yards out from the goal-line. If a team scores, they will have the opportunity to go for one or two on the PAT. A female must be used once within the first three plays or on the 1st and 4th downs when applicable. An interception will result in a team losing its possession. The game will be decided when one team scores more points in the rotation. No 1st downs will be awarded except in the case of a penalty. Interceptions will result in a turnover and may not be returned for any points. If the score is still tied after two complete overtime periods, each team must attempt a two point conversion after they score a touchdown. From this point on all subsequent overtime periods will continue with each team attempting a two point conversion after they score a touchdown.

LEAGUE POLICIES

GAMES:

REFS: Each week CSSC will provide referee(s) for each game.

FORFEITS:

If your team forfeits a game during the season, the following rules apply:

First Offense: Loss of game and warning issued.

Second Offense: Loss of game and staff reserves the right to remove team from playoffs.

Third Offense: Removal from the league

STANDINGS:

PLAYOFFS:

week of playoff game times roughly 3 days before their league. Teams will not receive a call for any other weeks of playoffs! It is ALL TEAM’S responsibility to check the playoff brackets at the league to find out what time they will be playing the following week if they win. In playoffs it is not uncommon, (and in some cases will be necessary), for teams to have more than one game in a given night. No non-roster players will be allowed during playoffs. All players must have signed the waiver or be on the roster by the second week of the season in order to be eligible for playoffs. All eligible teams will make the playoffs. Playoff eligible teams will be determined on a league by league basis. Teams that have violated the forfeit policy during the course of regular season will not be eligible for playoffs. In certain situations teams at or near the bottom of the standings may not advance to the playoffs. Check with CSSC league coordinator to see if this applies to your league. Playoffs are single elimination.

WAIVERS:

PLAYER ELIGIBILITY:

SPORTSMANSHIP:

The idea of CSSC is to have fun. We hope that all participants keep that in mind when becoming involved. Although the games may become intense, you still can be competitive while maintaining good sportsmanship. With this said, any behavior deemed unacceptable by staff may result in suspension and/or ejection from a game or the league. Abuse of officials, referees, and other staff will not be tolerated. CSSC reserves the right to remove a player from a game or a league if they are considered to be bringing down the quality of the league. CSSC will not tolerate fighting! Fighting will be an automatic ejection from any game and in most cases ejection from the league for the remainder of the season.

STAFF:

To coordinate and run the league, the officials and/or staff will be available at all times to help the league run as smoothly as possible. If you have questions regarding schedules, policies, rule interpretations, directions to the bar, etc. please ask.

LEAGUE CANCELLATION/RAINOUT:

Please call our weather hotline for the most up to date information on any cancellations (312.773.7100)

the cancellation. If a league is cancelled on site, CSSC staff will attempt to contact those teams still scheduled to play the remainder of the league day/night. Depending on the time of cancellation, some teams will have to be notified on site. If we do cancel, follow next week’s schedule unless otherwise notified, (i.e. If April 13 is cancelled teams should follow the April 20 schedule for their next game). The games that are cancelled will be made up towards the end of the season if time allows. In extreme circumstances, CSSC reserves the right to run a shortened season without a refund. CSSC also reserves the right to schedule games on days other than your regularly scheduled league day/night if necessary.

PRIZES/T-SHIRTS:

Each team will receive a pre-bundled set of colored jerseys with various sizes at the first night of the league. Additional shirts and sizes can be purchased from the CSSC for an additional charge. The top teams in each division will receive a prize of great emotional, spiritual, and most importantly, social value.

SPORTS LEAGUE OFFICIALS ASSOCIATION

OFFICIAL MEN’S INDOOR FOOTBALL RULES

(YARDAGE FOR 1ST DOWNS)

OVERVIEW

7 players on the field (you can play a legal game with a minimum of 5 players).

Two 20-minute halves (45 Minute Games – 1-minute half time)

Teams will have 2 time-outs PER GAME to use at their discretion.

FIRST DOWNS ARE ACHIEVED AT DESIGNATED MARKERS (One at each “ten” yard line and another at mid field)

6 point touchdowns

All legal catches within the “boundaries” of the playing surface are considered “in bounds”

Balls caught off the ceiling netting ARE legal catches

Choice of 1 or 2 extra points on PAT’s (3 paces / yards for 1 Pt., 10 paces / yards for 2 Pts.)

Dead ball on all fumbles or contact with the walls.

Quarterbacks cannot snap the ball to themselves.

Running clock except for final two minutes of the 2nd half.

Ties during regular season stay as a tie.

ONLY 2-Point conversion attempts may be intercepted and returned for 2 points.

Laterals may be intercepted and run back for a touchdown or yardage.

All fumbles will be ruled dead balls with the offense retaining possession at the spot of the fumble.

Four-Downs-and-Out format applies for ties in the playoffs.

Receivers need only one foot in-bounds with possession of the ball to be considered a catch.

RULE CLARIFICATION: The clock does not stop for a 2-minute warning unless there is a dead ball situation when the clock hits 2 minutes. RULE CLARIFICATION: Offsides on the defense will be a free play for the offense. After the play the offense will decide to take the 5-yard penalty or the result of the play

COIN FLIP / BEGINNING OF GAME

TEAM SIZE

 Each team shall field no more than 7 players on the field at one time. CSSC rules allow a team to play a legal game shorthanded with 5 players. Teams not able to field the minimum number of players (5) may play a “legal” game with the consent of the opposing captain and / or league staff. (Please not: if a team arrives with less than 5 players a “forfeit win” is also an option for the opposing captain.) Games will start no later than 10-minutes past the scheduled start time. At that time, it is up to the referee or staff member and opposing captain to allow play or call a forfeit.

 If a team substitutes players during the game, they must do so from the same sideline/bench the entire game.

 Eligible receivers must be on the playing field before the cadence starts.

FORFEITS

 Teams will have until 10 minutes past the designated start time to field a legal team. Shorthanded teams may play a legal game with a minimum of 5 players. Teams fielding less than 5 players will receive a forfeit. Exception: Teams may play a “legal game” with less than 5 players with the opposing teams consent. Teams who agree to play under these conditions will lose the option of receiving a forfeit win. Teams may pick up/recruit players during the regular season in order to field a full team so long as the number of players picked up does not exceed their opponent’s number of players. The use of non-roster players will not be allowed during playoffs. Each team’s waiver will be used as its final roster. Only players on the waivers may play in the playoffs. A formal protest may be filed before a game if an opposing player’s eligibility is in question. The player in question will be required to provide his/her player information (name, address, phone #, and signature) in writing to a CSSC staff member prior to the start of the game. This qualifies as an official protest. Any protest made during a game or after a game will NOT be considered a formal protest. The game will then be played in its entirety as scheduled.

THE GAMES / SCORING

point conversion attempts may be intercepted and returned for 2 points with the defense retaining possession at their 10 pace/yard line. One-point conversion attempts CANNOT be returned.

FIRST DOWNS

“FORFEIT OF POSSESSION/PUNT”

TURNOVER OF DOWNS

If the offense chooses to “play” on fourth down, and does not obtain either a first down or touchdown, the defense will take over at that spot (the line of scrimmage).

CONTINUANCE OF PLAY

Play shall continue until:

 Ball-carrier has at least one flag pulled by an opponent (see flag specifics for the few exceptions/additions concerning flag pulling)

 Ball-carrier leaves the field of play

 Ball-carrier scores

 Ball-Carrier’s knee touches the ground

TURNOVERS

RUSH

There will be an immediate rush.

PENALTIES

Normal rules and penalties of the NCAA apply unless exceptions have been made herein.

 Illegal Contact – Down Field: If the illegal contact occurs during play when the offense is advancing the ball the penalty will be a mark off of 5 paces/yards from the point where the ball carrier is at the time of the infraction. If this occurs during a pass play when the pass is incomplete, the penalty will be a mark off of 5 paces/yards from the line of scrimmage.

 False Start (Offensive): 5 paces/yards, play is ruled dead immediately, no option to decline, the down is replayed.

 Offsides/Illegal or Early Rush (Defensive): Play will be a free play and will NOT BE BLOWN DEAD. If the penalty is accepted by the offense, there is a five pace/yard mark-off from the line of scrimmage against the defense and the down is repeated. If the penalty is accepted any yardage gained on the play will be nullified. If the penalty is declined, the play will stand and it will be the next down.

 Illegal Motion: Players may not be in motion towards the line of scrimmage when the ball is snapped. This will result in a dead ball, 5-yd penalty on the offense and repeat of the down.

 Offensive Holding: It is illegal to grab any park of a defensive player when blocking on offense. Holding will result in a 10-yard penalty from the original line of scrimmage, which the defense can accept or decline. Replay the down. Offensive holding occurring in the end zone will result in a safety.

 Offensive Picking/Interference: The offensive team may not initiate a pick/block while in motion. The penalty for this is a 5 pace/yard penalty from the line of scrimmage. If a catch is made after a clear pick, it will be ruled no catch, 5 pace/yard penalty from line of scrimmage. Remember: Some acceptable incidental contact will occur while running routes and within the normal course of play, and will not be called.

 Unnecessary Roughness (Offense): Unnecessary roughness by the offense during a play will result in a 10 yard/pace mark off from the line of scrimmage and a loss of down. If the penalty occurs after the play the penalty will result in a 10 pace/yard marked off at the end of the play. Extreme roughness will result in ejection from the game and or league if deemed necessary by the referee and league staff.

 Unnecessary Roughness (Defense): This includes any illegal tag such as grabbing jerseys or excessive pushing etc. If the play is “dead” at the time the penalty is committed and the offense has not advanced the ball the penalty will be 10 pace/yard marked off from the line of scrimmage and an automatic first down will be awarded. If the play is ongoing or the offense has advanced the ball at the time the penalty is committed the penalty will be 10 paces/yards added on to the end of the play and an automatic first down will be awarded. Extreme roughness will result in ejection from the game and or league if deemed necessary by the referee and league staff.

 Defensive Pass Interference: Ball is spotted at the point of the infraction and offense is awarded an automatic first down. If the pass interference is in the end zone, the ball comes out to the 1 pace/yard line and it will be 1st down.

 Defensive Holding: 10 pace/yard penalty from line of scrimmage, replay down. Offense can accept or decline the penalty.

 Defensive Checking: One open hand bump within 5 yards of the line of scrimmage is allowed (at the discretion of the ref). Riding the offensive player for the first five yards will not be tolerated. Any obvious repeated contact within the first 5 yards will result in a 5-yard penalty from the line of scrimmage, replay down, offense can accept or decline the penalty.

 Safeties: A safety will be scored if a player is:

1. – tagged down in their own end zone

2. -runs out of bounds in their own end zone

3. -snaps the ball out of the end zone

4. -if the offense fumbles the ball in their own end zone

As a result, the team on defense receives 2 points and will take over on their own “10” yard line for a first down.

 Intentional Grounding: This penalty will be called when a passer facing an imminent loss of yardage because of pressure from the defense, throws a forward pass, without a realistic chance of completion. This will result a loss of down (i.e. if it was 1st down during the penalty, it is now 2nd down). And the ball being spotted at the point of infraction (QB’s point of release).

 Fighting – Fighting is not allowed and will NOT be tolerated. All parties involved in fighting will be subject to immediate ejection from the game at the referee’s discretion and subject to ejection from the league at CSSC staff discretion.

FLAG SPECIFICS

3) Any ball-carrier whose flags are (in ref’s opinion) not accessible to be pulled will be down at 1st point of contact with the defense.

5) Players may leave their feet to pull flag.

6) Spin moves are allowed.

7) Belt grabbing will result in a 5 paces/yard penalty from end of play.

 Any belt grabbing at the end of a half or game will result in a 5 paces/yard penalty from point of infraction and replay of down. If this penalty occurs within 5 paces/yard of the end zone, the ball will be spotted at the one-yard line and the offense will receive one play.

MISCELLANEOUS

 If the player calling the cadence does not receive the snap, the play will not stand and will result in a 5 pace/yard penalty and repeat of the down.

 One person must call the cadence and receive the snap – violation of this will result in a 5 pace/yard penalty and repeat of down.

 Silent snaps will not be allowed – violation of this will result in a 5-yard penalty and repeat of down.

 The QB may not be in motion and then receive the snap – this will result in a 5 pace/yard penalty and repeat of down.

 The QB may NOT snap the ball to him/herself. If the QB does snap to him/herself, play will stop immediately and it will result in a 5-yd penalty and repeat the down.

 Loss of down penalties which occur on 4th down will result in change of possession.

 Players will not be allowed to intentionally push players out of bounds. Some incidental contact will be allowed at the ref’s discretion but any intentional push in the referee’s eyes will result in a 5-yard penalty from the spot of the infraction.

 Receivers intentionally leaving the field of play are ineligible to receive a pass if they are the first person to touch the ball. This includes the back of the end zone.

 DIVING IS ALLOWED. Offensive players may dive to further advance the ball as long as they do not initiate contact. When this occurs the ball will be spotted where it is whenever the ball carrier is touched with two hands his/her knee touches the ground, or when the ball touches the ground. Diving into or over a defensive player will result in the player being down at the point of takeoff and there will be a 5 pace/yard mark-off against the Offense and loss of down.

 Only the ball needs to cross the plane of the goal-line in order for a touchdown to be awarded.

 Ball-carrier who initiates excessive contact (i.e. dipping shoulders, using elbows, kicking, stiff-arming, etc.) will result in a 5-yard penalty from the point of the infraction.

PLAYOFFS

 Playoffs will follow the last week of regular season and will be single elimination.

 SEEDING – Teams will be seeded based upon their winning percentage throughout the season. In most cases all teams will advance to the playoffs as long as they are not in violation of the forfeit policy. *Note: In some situations the last ranked team in the league may not be eligible for playoffs. This will be decided on a league by league basis.

 PLAYOFF GAMES – Playoff games will follow the same format during regulation as the regular season. If teams are tied at the end of regulation in the playoffs, overtime will be used. Non-roster players will not be allowed for playoffs. All players must have signed the waiver, and/or have been placed at the roster at the beginning of the season.

 OVERTIME – In the playoffs the “Four-Downs and Out” format will apply. The beginning of the game will start with the CSSC staff using an “odd/even”, or coin flip with the winning team deciding on offense or defense, (there is no option to decline). The losing team will decide which end zone to use. Teams will attempt to score in the same end zone for the duration of the overtime. Each team will then have 4 downs to score from 10 paces/yards out from the goal-line. If a team scores, they will have the opportunity to go for one or two on the PAT. An interception will result in a team losing its possession. The game will be decided when one team scores more points in the rotation. No 1st downs will be awarded except in the case of a penalty. Interceptions will result in a turnover and may not be returned for any points. If the score is still tied after two complete overtime periods, each team must attempt a two-point conversion after they score a touchdown. From this point on all subsequent overtime periods will continue with each team attempting a two-point conversion after they score a touchdown.

LEAGUE POLICIES

GAMES:

REFS: Each week CSSC will provide referee(s) for each game. 5

FORFEITS:

If your team forfeits a game during the season, the following rules apply:

First Offense: Loss of game and warning issued.

Second Offense: Loss of game and staff reserves the right to remove team from playoffs.

Third Offense: Removal from the league

STANDINGS:

PLAYOFFS:

Playoffs will begin immediately following the end of the regular season and will typically last between 2 and 3 weeks. After teams have been seeded according to their records all captains will receive an email or call with the 1st week of playoff game times roughly 3 days before their league. Teams will not receive a call for any other weeks of playoffs! It is ALL TEAM’S responsibility to check the playoff brackets at the league to find out what time they will be playing the following week if they win. In playoffs it is not uncommon, (and in some cases will be necessary), for teams to have more than one game in a given night. No non-roster players will be allowed during playoffs. All players must have signed the waiver or be on the roster by the second week of the season in order to be eligible for playoffs. All eligible teams will make the playoffs. Playoff eligible teams will be determined on a league by league basis. Teams that have violated the forfeit policy during the course of regular season will not be eligible for playoffs. In certain situations, teams at or near the bottom of the standings may not advance to the playoffs. Check with CSSC league coordinator to see if this applies to your league. Playoffs are single elimination.

WAIVERS:

PLAYER ELIGIBILITY:

SPORTSMANSHIP: 6

STAFF:

LEAGUE CANCELLATION/RAINOUT:

Please call our weather hotline for the most up to date information on any cancellations (312.773.7100)

If the league is cancelled, CSSC staff will change the voicemail immediately (312-733-7100). CSSC will then email or text all of the captains to let them know. It is then the captain’s responsibility to inform all teammates of the cancellation. If a league is cancelled on site, CSSC staff will attempt to contact those teams still scheduled to play the remainder of the league day/night. Depending on the time of cancellation, some teams will have to be notified on site. If we do cancel, follow next week’s schedule unless otherwise notified, (i.e. If April 13 is cancelled teams should follow the April 20 schedule for their next game). The games that are cancelled will be made up towards the end of the season if time allows. In extreme circumstances, CSSC reserves the right to run a shortened season without a refund. CSSC also reserves the right to schedule games on days other than your regularly scheduled league day/night if necessary.

PRIZES/T-SHIRTS:

SPORTS LEAGUE OFFICIALS ASSOCIATION

OFFICIAL MEN’S FLAG FOOTBALL RULES

(Yardage for 1st down and paid referees)

OVERVIEW

Flag

7 players on the field (you can play a legal game with a minimum of 5 players)

Two 20-minute halves

A first down will be achieved each time the ball reaches the 2nd cone from where the ball was originally spotted on first down

6 point touchdowns

Choice of 1 or 2 extra points on PAT’s (3 paces/yards for 1 Pt., 10 paces/yards for 2 pts.)

Quarterbacks cannot snap the ball to themselves

Running clock except for final two minutes of 2nd half

Ties during regular season stay as a tie

ONLY 2-Point conversion attempts may be intercepted and returned for 2 points

Laterals may be intercepted and run back for a touchdown or yardage.

All fumbles will be ruled dead balls with the offense retaining possession at the spot of the fumble

Four-Downs-and-Out format applies for ties in the playoffs.

Receivers need only one foot in-bounds with possession of the ball to be considered a catch

Rule Clarification – The clock does not stop for a 2 minute warning unless there is a dead ball situation when the clock hits 2 minutes.

Rule Clarification- Offsides on the defense will be a free play for the offense.

COIN FLIP/BEGINNING OF GAME

PAID REFEREES

• Each week CSSC will provide referee(s) for each game.

TEAM SIZE

• Each team shall field 7 players on the field at one time. CSSC rules allow a team to play a legal game shorthanded with 5 players. Teams may have as many players on their roster as they want. All rosters must be finalized by the second week of the regular season. Players added after the second week, that are not on the team roster or waiver, will not be eligible for playoffs.

FORFEITS

• Teams will have until 10 minutes past the designated start time to field a legal team. Shorthanded teams may play a legal game with a minimum of 5 players. Teams fielding less than 5 players will receive a forfeit. Exception: Teams may play a “legal game” with less than 5 players with the opposing teams consent. Teams who agree to play under these conditions

will lose the option of receiving a forfeit win. Teams may pick up players during the regular season in order to field a full team so long as the number of players picked up does not exceed their opponent’s number of players. The use of non-roster players will not be allowed during playoffs. The team waiver will be used as each team’s final roster. Only players on the waiver may play in the playoffs.

SUBSTITUTIONS

If a team substitutes players during the game, they must do so from the same sideline the entire game. Eligible receivers must be on the playing field before the cadence is started.

TIME

 an incomplete pass is thrown

 a player ends a play by going out of bounds

 either team scores (clock will remain off until the opposing team snaps the ball after the PAT attempt; the clock does not run during extra points)

 change of possession

 a penalty which must be marked off occurs

 A team calls a time out.

 The clock will not stop for a “2 minute warning” unless there is a dead ball situation when the clock hits 2 minutes.

***THE CLOCK DOES NOT STOP ON FIRST DOWNS OR FUMBLES.

** If a team is up by 17 points or more, the clock runs continuously during the last two minutes of play.

For the entire game, the offensive team has 30 seconds to snap the ball once the ball has been spotted. If the referee feels that this is being taking advantage of the referee will then stop the clock, and penalize the offense 5 paces/yards.

STANDINGS

• Standings will be posted at the league and on-line at: www.chicagosocial.com a few days after the games are completed.

GENERAL RULES

GAME EQUIPMENT

1) Game ball must meet NFHS and NCAA Ball Specification guideline as Followed:

The ball shall meet the following specification:

Length–10 7/8 inches-11 7/16 inches

Circumference Width– 20 ¾-21 ¼

Circumference length–27 ¾ -28 ½

Weight of 14 to 15 ounces

Inflation pressure of 12 ½ -13 ½ pounds per square inch

• TIE GAMES/SCORING – Games ending in a tie score will be recorded as tie games during regular season play. Please refer to the OVERTIME section for ties during the playoffs. Touchdowns are awarded 6 pts. Extra points: 3 paces/yards off the goal line = 1 pt., 10 paces/yards = 2pts. New rule: 2-point conversion attempts may be intercepted and returned for 2 points with the defense retaining possession at their 10 pace/yard line. One-point conversion attempts CANNOT be returned.

• FIRST DOWNS– Each team shall have 4 downs to either score or earn another first down. First downs are earned each time the ball reaches the 2nd cone from where the ball was originally spotted on the first down. If a team fails to score or earn a first down, possession will go to the other team. Offensive teams may elect to punt on fourth downs.

• PUNTS– A punt must be declared and cannot be faked. All punts are “free” punts. A team need not snap the ball during a punt, a dropped snap during a punt is not a fumble. Punts must be kicked. Punts cannot be thrown. There is no minimum number of players required on the line of scrimmage during a punt. NO DOWNFIELD BLOCKING or BLOCKING AT THE LINE OF SCRIMMAGE. The kicking team may not cross the line of scrimmage until the ball is kicked. The receiving team may not raise hands or jump to block a punt. If a punt is “shanked” and caught it is a live ball and is returnable. If the ball comes into contact with the ground after it has been punted it is a dead ball, spotted at the point where it hit the ground, and may not be returned. A punt through the end zone comes back to 10 paces/yards off the goal line. If a player drops the ball in the end zone, the ball is again spotted 10 paces/yards out from the goal line and is not counted as a safety.

• CONTINUANCE OF PLAY:

Play shall continue until:

 Ball-carrier has at least one flag pulled by an opponent (see flag specifics for the few exceptions/additions concerning flag pulling)

 Ball-carrier leaves the field of play

 Ball-carrier scores

 Ball-Carrier’s knee touches the ground

• TURNOVERS– A change of possession can only occur on an interception of a forward pass or a lateral. A fumble is not a turnover. The ball is dead at the point of the fumble and the offense retains possession. NEW RULE: A lateral is not a forward pass and can be picked off in mid-air. A picked off lateral will result in a change of possession, and can be returned for a touchdown. EXCEPTION. A lateral intercepted in an overtime period of a playoff game cannot be returned for points, this is simply a turnover.

• BLOCKING – Blocking is allowed at or behind the line of scrimmage. Blocking on or behind the line of scrimmage must be done with open hands between the shoulders and the waste of the defensive player and done in a “pass protection manner”. CUT BLOCKS, DRIVE BLOCKS, BLOCKIN IN THE BACK, PILING ON A PLAYER ON THE GROUND and CRACK – BACK BLOCKSare illegal and will result in an UNNECESSARY ROUGHNESS PENALTY.

NO downfield blocking! A player may shadow block for his teammate, but no contact is allowed. PICKING off a defensive player by initiating contact is considered downfield blocking, this is not allowed. Due to the danger of picking, a player may be ejected if such an action persists. See Penalties section of rules.

If a defensive player is on the ground all blocking rules above still apply. Offensive players may not “pile on” or “lay on” the defensive player to keep him on the ground. They may still block him as stated above. This will result in an UNNECESSARY ROUGHNESS penalty.

Defenders rushing the quarterback may not grab an offensive player by the jersey to move them. This will result in an UNNECESSARY ROUGHNESS penalty.

• RUSH

There will be an immediate rush.

PENALTIES

Normal rules and penalties of the NCAA apply unless exceptions have been made herein.

Some Common Examples of Penalties:

• Offsides/Illegal or Early Rush (Offensive): 5 paces/yards, play is ruled dead immediately, no option to decline, down is replayed.

• Illegal Motion: Players may not be in motion towards the line of scrimmagewhen the ball is snapped. This will result in a dead ball, 5-yd penalty on the offense and repeat of the down.

• Offensive Picking/Interference: The offensive team may not initiate a pick/block while in motion. The penalty for this is a 5 pace/yard penalty from the line of scrimmage. If a catch is made after a clear pick, it will be ruled no catch. A 5 pace/yard penalty from line of scrimmagewill be enforced. Remember: Some acceptable incidental contact will occur while running routes and within the normal course of play and will not be called.

• Offensive Holding: It is illegal to grab any part of a defensive player when blocking on offense. Holding will result in a 10-yard penalty from the spot of the foul, which the defense can accept or decline. Replay the down. Offensive holding in the end zone will result in a safety.

• Unnecessary Roughness (Offense): Unnecessary roughness on the offense will result in a 10 pace/yard mark off from the line of scrimmage and a loss of down if the penalty occurs during a play. If the penalty occurs after the play the penalty will result in a 10 pace/yard mark off at the end of the play. Extreme roughness will result in ejection from the game and or league if deemed necessary by the referee and league staff.

• Unnecessary Roughness (Defense): This includes any illegal tag such as grabbing jerseys or excessive pushing etc. If the play is “dead” at the time the penalty is committed and the offense has not advanced the ball, the penalty will be a 10 pace/yard mark off from the line of scrimmage and an automatic first down will be awarded. If the play is on going or the offense has advanced the ball at the time the penalty is committed, the penalty will be 10 paces/yards added on to the end of the play and an automatic first down will be awarded. Extreme roughness will result in ejection from the game and or league if deemed necessary by the referee and league staff.

• Defensive Holding: 10 pace/yard penalty from line of scrimmage, replay down. Offense can accept or decline the penalty.

• Defensive Checking: One open hand bump within 5 paces/yards of the line of scrimmage is allowable (at the discretion of the ref). Riding the offensive player for the first five yards will not be tolerated.

Any obvious repeated contact within the first 5 yards will result in a 5 pace/yard penalty from line of scrimmage, replay down, offense can accept or decline the penalty.

• Safeties: A safety will be scored if a player is:

1. – tagged down in their own end zone (not on a punt return)

2. -runs out of bounds in their own end zone

3. -snaps the ball out of the end zone

4. -if the offense fumbles the ball in their own end zone

As a result, the team on defense receives 2 points and the team on offense must now punt a “free” kick from their own 10 paces/yard line. Also, a player having intercepted a pass or received a punt in the end zone cannot be tagged in the end zone for a safety unless he has previously crossed the plane of the end zonewith the ball.

• Fighting– Fighting is not allowed and will NOT be tolerated. All parties involved in fighting will be subject to ejection from the game at the referees’ discretion and subject to ejection from the league at CSSC staff discretion.

FLAG SPECIFICS PENALTIES

3) Any ball-carrier whose flags are (in ref’s opinion) not accessible to be pulled will be down at 1st point of contact with the defense.

5) Players may leave their feet to pull flag.

6) Spin moves will be allowed.

7) Belt grabbing will result in a 5 paces/yard penalty from end of play.

• *Any belt grabbing at the end of a half or game will result in a 5 paces/yard penalty from point of infraction and replay of down. If this penalty occurs within 5 paces/yard of the end zone, the ball will be spotted at the one yard line and the offense will receive one play.

GAME EQUIPMENT

2) Game ball must meet NFHS and NCAA Ball Specification guideline rules

MISCELLANEOUS

 If the player calling the cadence does not receive the snap, the play will not stand and will result in a 5 pace/yard penalty and repeat of the down

 One person must call the cadence and receive the snap – violation of this will result in a 5 pace/yard penalty and repeat of down.

 Silent snaps will not be allowed – violation of this will result in a 5 pace/yard penalty and repeat of down.

 The QB may not be in motion and then receive the snap – this will result in a 5 pace/yard penalty and repeat of down.

 The QB may NOT snap the ball to himself. If the QB does snap to himself, play will stop immediately and it will result in a 5-yd penalty and repeat the down.

 Loss of down penalties which occur on 4th down will result in change of possession.

 Receivers need only one foot in bounds for a reception. If in the referees’ eyes a receiver would be able to legally catch a pass but, was pushed out of bounds by a defender while in the air a catch will be awarded.

 Receivers intentionally leaving the field of play are ineligible to receive a pass if they are the first person to touch the ball. This includes the back of the end zone.

 A player who catches the ball and lands with 1 or 2 feet across the goal-line, but has his flag pulled after possession and before he puts the ball across the plane of the goal will not be awarded a touchdown. The ball will be spotted at the point of where the ball was at the time he was called “down”.

 Only the ball needs to cross the plane of the goal-line in order for a touchdown to be awarded.

 Ball-carrier who initiates excessive contact (i.e. dipping shoulders, using elbows, kicking) will result in 5 pace/ yard penalty from point of infraction

 Any player who attempts to knock the ball out of the quarterbacks arm or hits the arm of the quarterback while in delivery will receive an Unnecessary Roughness penalty. If contact is made on the quarterback’s follow through it will be up to the referee’s discretion to determine if a penalty was committed. TOUCHING THE QUARTERBACK’S ARM, SHOULDER, or UPPER BODY DURING OR IMMEDIATELY AFTER AN ATTEMPTED PASS WILL MOST LIKELY RESULT IN A PENALTY.

 Any player attempting to strip the ball from an offensive player will receive a 5 yard/pace penalty from the spot of the ball at the end of the play.

PLAYOFFS

• Playoffs will follow the last week of regular season and will be single elimination.

• OVERTIME – In the playoffs the Four-Downs and Out format will apply. The beginning of the game will start with the CSSC staff using an “odd/even”, or coin flip with the winning team deciding on offense or defense, (there is no option to decline). The losing team will decide which end zone to use. Teams will attempt to score in the same end zone. Each team will then have 4 downs to score from 10 paces/yards out from the goal-line. If a team scores, they will have the opportunity to go for one or two on the PAT. The game will be decided when one team scores more points in the rotation. No 1st downs will be awarded except in the case of a penalty. Interceptions will result in a turnover and may not be returned for any points. If the score is still tied after two complete overtime periods, each team must attempt a two point conversion after they score a touchdown. From this point on all subsequent overtime periods will continue with each team attempting a two point conversion after they score a touchdown.

LEAGUE POLICIES

GAMES:

REFS:

Each week CSSC will provide referee(s) for each game.

FORFEITS:

If your team forfeits a game during the season, the following rules apply:

First Offense: Loss of game.

Second Offense: Loss of game and staff reserves the right to remove team from playoffs.

Third Offense: Removal from the league

Any team that forfeits more than once also forfeits any guarantee or right to a certain number of guaranteed games.

STANDINGS:

The updated standings will be posted weekly on line at: www.chicagosocial.com. The standings will display each teams rank within its skill level. Rank is based on each team’s winning percentage throughout the season.

PLAYOFFS:

playoff brackets at the league to find out what time they will be playing the following week if they win. In playoffs it is not uncommon, (and in some cases will be necessary), for teams to have more than one game in a given night. No non-roster players will be allowed during playoffs. All players must have signed the waiver or be on the roster by the second week of the season in order to be eligible for playoffs. All eligible teams will make the playoffs. Playoff eligible teams will be determined on a league by league basis. Teams that have violated the forfeit policy during the course of regular season will not be eligible for playoffs. In certain situations teams at or near the bottom of the standings may not advance to the playoffs. Check with CSSC league coordinator to see if this applies to your league. Playoffs are single elimination.

Seeding: Teams are seeded according to winning percentage and strength of schedule. Teams may be dropped from their regular season level based on the above criteria. Teams may play more than one game per day/night, and/or play games on days/nights other than your regularly scheduled league day/night if necessary. CSSC reserves the right to schedule playoff games on days other than teams regularly scheduled league night.

WAIVERS:

PLAYER ELIGIBILITY:

Any questions regarding rules, policies, or eligibility of players must be addressed before the start of the game. Any team that would like to challenge the eligibility of an opposing player must do so before the start of the game. Players who have been placed on the roster and signed the waiver are eligible for playoffs. A formal protest may be filed before a game if an opposing player’s eligibility is in question. The player in question will be required to provide his player information (name, address, phone #, signature) in writing to a CSSC staff member prior to the start of the game. This qualifies as an official protest. Any protest made during a game or after a game will NOT be considered a formal protest. The game will then be played in its entirety as scheduled. Teams will be notified of all rulings on the identified eligibility discrepancy by the following business day – decisions will not be made on site. If the protest is proven to be legitimate, it will result in the forfeiture of the game in question. Games subsequent to the protested game may be rescheduled. The above procedure will also apply for any other “logged” protests. All rulings by CSSC staff are considered final.

SPORTSMANSHIP:

behavior deemed unacceptable by staff may result in suspension and/or ejection from a game or the league. Abuse of officials, referees, and other staff will not be tolerated. CSSC reserves the right to remove a player from a game or a league if they are considered to be bringing down the quality of the league. CSSC will not tolerate fighting! Fighting will be an automatic ejection from any game and in most cases ejection from the league for the remainder of the season.

STAFF:

LEAGUE CANCELLATION/RAINOUT:

Please call our weather hotline for the most up to date information on any cancellations (312.773.7100)

If the league is cancelled, CSSC staff will change the voicemail immediately. CSSC will then call all of the captains to let them know. It is then the captain’s responsibility to inform all teammates of the cancellation. If a league is cancelled on site, CSSC staff will attempt to contact those teams still scheduled to play the remainder of the league day/night. Depending on the time of cancellation, some teams will have to be notified on site. If we do cancel, follow next week’s schedule unless otherwise notified, (i.e. If April 13 is cancelled teams should follow the April 20 schedule for their next game). The games that are cancelled will be made up towards the end of the season if time allows. In extreme circumstances, CSSC reserves the right to run a shortened season without a refund. CSSC reserves the right to move games or weeks to an alternative location when deemed necessary without compensation. CSSC also reserves the right to schedule games on days other than your regularly scheduled league day/night if necessary.

PRIZES/ JERSEYS: Each team will receive a pre-bundled set of colored jerseys with various sizes at the first night of the league. Additional shirts and sizes can be purchased from the CSSC for an additional charge. The top teams in each division will receive a prize of great emotional, spiritual, and most importantly, social value.

Football Rules

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