8-on-8 Tackle Football Rules

What differences are there between 8-man and 11-man football? Obviously, the most noticeable difference is the fact that the game is played with 3 less players on offense and defense! But what other differences exist?

Field size differences

8-man is played on a shorter and narrower field. The field is closer to the size of a flag football field. 

Line of Scrimmage (LOS) and Eligible receivers
In 8-man football, five players are required to be on the Offensive L.O.S. with 3 down lineman who can not catch the ball. Any player who is on the end of the Offensive L.O.S is an eligible receiver, i.e. Tight end or split end, but not a Tackle, Guard, or Center on that same side; and the Tackle, Guard, or Center on the opposing side. All 3 backs are also eligible receivers, but only five players on the L.O.S.

O       O  X O   O   
            O O O      

Defensive LOS must have 2 down linemen, but can have all 8 on the LOS.

Jerseys
Any player, regardless of position played, may wear any numbered jersey. There is no numbering requirement as exists in 11-man.

Special Teams
Teams do kick-off and punt. Teams do return both kick-offs and punts. The kick-off is spotted at the 30-yard line and is always a live ball. The receiving team must have at least 3 players within 10 yards of the ball at the kickoff (prevents on-side kicks). Fair catch is permitted. A muff kickoff is a fumble (live ball) regardless of intention. If a kickoff goes into the end zone, it is brought out to the 15-yard line for play. A muff punt is a dead-ball at the point of the muff. If the player maintains control of the punt, then fumbles, it is a fumble (live ball). After a safety, the ball is spotted at the 15-yard line for the free kick/punt.

These are the major differences between the 11-man and 8-man games and all 8-man Life CHAMPS games will be played by these rules. It is still important to note that the basics of the game are still to block and tackle. Fundamentals still have to be taught just as in 11-man football. Players must still block, run and tackle. That is what the game is all about, regardless of the number of players. Still one BALL, Two End zones and Two teams that must control that ONE BALL to win the game.