Football Pushing Rules

What is pushing in football?

Pushing in football is when players attempt to move opposing players by pushing into them with their bodies. Football is a contact sport, so it’s inevitable that hits, pushes, and charges are permitted during the game. Players are allowed to be aggressive (with limitations) toward other team members in order to keep them away from the ball or prevent them from making a run down the field.

Why do players push?

Pushing occurs on every single play, regardless of the score or situation. Every offensive formation aims to block out their opponents. Offensive linemen and other blockers push away opponents to keep them away from the quarterback. Defensive players attempt to do the opposite and push away blockers to tackle the ball carrier. They try to keep players from moving into open positions and away from scoring opportunities.

Pushing occurs when a player charges another, hitting them directly with enough power and force to move them backwards or tackle them entirely. Pushing players can get dangerous, so it’s important that players perform pushes with as much caution as they can without getting injured.

Illegal Contact

Although pushing is permitted, illegal contact is not permitted during games. Illegal contact occurs when a player is still making significant contact with a receiver after the receiver crosses five yards over the line of scrimmage. The official will call a penalty if this occurs.

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