The whole gridiron in one grid
American football is all drama and strategy, and this word search captures both. You'll track down the big moments — the TOUCHDOWN, the FIELDGOAL, the game-winning SACK — the positions from QUARTERBACK to LINEBACKER, and storied teams like the PACKERS, COWBOYS and PATRIOTS.
Each puzzle pulls a fresh selection from the list, so a different play is called every time you play — gentle on Easy, and a Hard-mode drive once the diagonals and backwards words appear.
How the game is played
American football is played on a long field called the GRIDIRON, and the goal is to carry or throw the ball into the other team's ENDZONE. Do that for a TOUCHDOWN — worth six points — or kick it through the posts for a three-point FIELDGOAL. The team with the ball gets four tries, called 'downs', to move ten yards and keep its drive alive.
Each play starts with the SNAP from a HUDDLE, and the QUARTERBACK either hands off or throws to a RECEIVER while the defence tries to TACKLE, SACK or force a FUMBLE. It's a game of inches and big collisions — which is why everyone wears a HELMET.
From kickoff to the Super Bowl
The top US league is the NFL, and its championship game, the SUPERBOWL, is one of the most-watched television events in the world — as famous for its half-time show and TAILGATE parties as for the football. Whether you live for game day or just show up for the snacks, this puzzle is a fun warm-up for fans and a handy way for newcomers to learn the lingo. (After the global game? Try our Soccer word search.)
Frequently asked questions
What's in the football word search?
American football plays, positions and teams — touchdown, quarterback, the Super Bowl, the Packers and more. Each puzzle uses a fresh mix. (For the global game, see our Soccer word search.)
Is this American football or soccer?
American football — TOUCHDOWNS, the QUARTERBACK, the SUPERBOWL and teams like the PACKERS and COWBOYS. For the global game, see our Soccer word search.
Is it good for a Super Bowl party?
Great for it — print a pack for game-day downtime, or use it to help newcomers learn the lingo. Easy mode suits younger fans.