Why Is American Football Called Football?

The term American football might seem fitting, as it#39;s played with a ball that looks significantly longer than a foot. However, its name is not derived from the actual length of the ball. Let#39;s delve into the fascinating reasons behind this name and dispel some common misconceptions.

The Evolution of the Term

Initially, the modern American football did not have its name because of its shape or length. Instead, it came from the British sport of football, which involved both kicking and carrying the ball. The sport in America evolved from these early forms, influenced by rugby, and eventually became known as American football to differentiate it from soccer (association football).

Over time, the name became more about the style of play and the foot#39;s role in the game rather than the ball#39;s shape. Here are some key points that clarify why American football is called just that:

Roland Van Zuylen-Watson on Football Nomenclature

In a conversation with Rolling Stone, Roland Van Zuylen-Watson, a historian at Brown University and editor of The Game of Our Life: Football in American Culture, provided insights on the naming of football. Van Zuylen-Watson explained:

Football is called football because it is – long and curcuitous – descended from football known to most non-europeans as soccer.

This statement highlights that the name reflects the sport#39;s descent from earlier forms of football, not the length of the ball.

The Role of the Foot in the Game

Many aspects of the game involve the use of the foot. These include kick-offs, punts, field goals, and the acrobatic maneuvers made by receivers to keep both feet inbound when catching passes. This is why American football is called football – the foot is an integral part of the game, though not the only part.

Examples include:

Kick-offs: This begins the game or halves by a direct kick from the kicker towards the returning player. Punts: A special type of kick that sends the ball downfield to the opposing team, often to help gain a first down. Field Goals: Scored by kicking the ball between the two yellow upright posts over the crossbar, typically to try and score from 30-50 yards out without blocking. Reception: A receiver must maintain control of the ball and have both feet in bounds to secure a catch for a first down.

The Ball’s Dimensions

To further clarify, a regulation NFL football can have a long circumference of 28 to 28.5 inches, while an NCAA football can have a long circumference of 27.75 to 28.5 inches. These measurements show that the ball does not have to be exactly a foot long. In fact, its length can vary, making the claim that the name is based on the length of the ball inaccurate.

Final Thoughts

The modern American football, despite its elongated oval shape, has its name rooted in a rich and exciting history of sport and strategic play. It is called football not because the ball measures a foot long, but because it is a descendant of older games in which the foot played a significant role in the game.

Understanding the true origins of the name and the importance of the foot in the game can help clear up misconceptions and provide a deeper appreciation for the complexity and excitement of American football.