What To Expect From Your First NFL Game
The NFL season is well underway as teams battle it out to take their place in Super Bowl LVIII at the Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas, Nevada on Sunday, February 11, 2024. The 2023 edition saw the Kansas City Chiefs edge out the Philadelphia Eagles 38-36, in a thrilling game watched by over 115 million viewers in the United States, making it the most watched Super Bowl in history, but also the most popular TV program of all time in the U.S. The Kansay City Chiefs are the favorites to defend their crown in the NFL odds, they’ve picked up from where they left off last season meaning they’re seen as the team to beat.
Image by Kalawin
If you're a fan of the NFL, or only just discovering it now, you might be wondering what it's like to actually attend a game in person. Well, you're in the right place, because we’ve rounded up everything you need to know to help you make the most of your first NFL game experience.
The Rules
While it may seem complicated and confusing at first. It’s actually pretty simple - get the ball in the redzone and score a touchdown and the team with the most points wins the game. If you’re already familiar with the rules even better, but either way, you’ll soon pick it up and learn to appreciate the on-field action even more.
NFL Game Facts
Teams: Each team has eleven players.
Time: A game is 60 minutes long and is made up of:
Four 15min quarters
12min half-time
15min sudden-death overtime if the scores are tied
Scoring:
A touchdown is worth six points.
A Field goal is worth three points.
An extra point is gained by kicking the ball through the uprights after a touchdown.
Alternatively, a team can go for two points by taking the ball into the end zone again.
Two points are awarded to the defensive team when a member of the offensive team is tackled with the ball in his own end zone.
Build up to game day
So now that you now the basic rules, it’s time to get ready for game day. The key is to plan ahead. NFL games are very popular, so you'll want to buy your tickets well in advance to make sure you get a seat.
You'll also need to check the weather forecast, the parking situation around the ground, public transport, and the stadium rules before you head out. Some stadiums have strict policies on what you can take inside, such as bags, food, or drinks, so be sure you follow them to avoid any problems getting into the stadium.
Image by .shock
Game day
Team colours:
Don’t forget to dress for the weather conditions. Depending on where you are attending a game, temperatures and conditions can vary considerably so make sure you’re prepared. If you’re supporting a particular team, be sure to get your team colours and face paints out and support your team.
Time:
While a football game has 60 minutes of playing time in total, the actual time it takes for all the action to unfold is on average around 3 hours and 12 minutes. So, be prepared for a long day out.
Get there early:
A huge part of going to an NFL game is the pre-game activities in and around the ground. Meet up with family and friends and soak up the pre-game events, such as tailgating, music concerts, fan zones, and much more. Look to arrive a few hours before kick-off to avoid traffic congestion and to make the most of the pre-game atmosphere.
Show respect:
One of the great things about the NFL is that fans from both teams can sit next to each other and enjoy the game together. Yes, some fans can get a little loud and show a lot of passion when they are supporting their team, but it’s important to be respectful to everyone, no matter which team they support.
Image by Flamingo Images
Enjoy it:
The reason fans the world over love the NFL is because it’s fun. From the pre-game festivities and half-time entertainment, to the on-field action. So, cheer on your team, talk to your fellow fans, take plenty of pictures, and enjoy the experience. Your first NFL game is an experience you’ll never want to forget.
Many fans will tell you that there’s no other sport as action-packed and exciting as the NFL. With some of the world’s best athletes on display plus edge of the seat action and a great atmosphere, it’s an experience not to be missed.