Your first six-man game can feel like football on fast-forward. Plays break open in seconds, the score climbs quickly and, every now and then, the game ends at halftime. A little preparation makes it much more fun. Here is what to watch for.
Before kickoff
- Check the time early. Quarters are 10 minutes under UIL rules, and the mercy rule can end games early, so arriving late can mean missing a lot.
- Look at the field. It is 80 by 40 yards. Notice how close the sidelines are; that is why the game is so fast.
- Find the kicker. Kicking matters more in six-man than in 11-man. A reliable kicker is a weapon.
Watch the first second of every play
The player who takes the snap cannot run across the line of scrimmage. The ball has to be exchanged first, or passed or kicked. So on running plays, watch the ball change hands right after the snap. Once you see it, you will start spotting the pitches, reverses and throw-backs that make six-man offenses so creative. (The exchange rule, explained.)
Count eligible receivers: all of them
Every offensive player can catch a pass, including the center. Watch how defenses try to cover six possible receivers with six defenders, and how often one guy gets loose.
Know the scoring
- Touchdown: 6
- Kicked try: 2
- Run or pass try: 1
- Field goal: 4
After a touchdown, pay attention to whether the team kicks or goes for it. A missed kick costs two points, and those add up. More in six-man scoring explained.
Keep an eye on the margin
If a team leads by 45 at halftime, or reaches a 45-point lead later, the game is over. Near the end of the first half, watch how a big lead changes play calling.
Watch the open-field tackling
With so much space, defenders make a lot of one-on-one tackles with nobody behind them. A single missed tackle often means a touchdown. The best six-man defenders are fast, smart about angles and very sure tacklers.
Enjoy the setting
Six-man is a small-town game. Crowds can include most of the town, the band might be a dozen kids, and players often play both ways. That is the point. Bring a chair or a blanket, get a concession-stand burger and cheer for everyone.
Want to sound like a regular? Bookmark our six-man glossary.