What is the Difference Between American Football and Soccer? Why is American Football Called Football in the United States?
American football and soccer, while both involving kicking and throwing a ball, are distinct sports with their own unique rules and objectives.
Key Differences:
- Playing Field: American football is played on a rectangular field with goalposts at each end, while soccer is played on a rectangular field with nets at each end.
- Ball: In American football, an oval-shaped ball is used, while in soccer, a round ball is used.
- Scoring: In American football, points are scored by carrying the ball into the end zone (touchdown), kicking it through the goalposts (field goal), or throwing it through the goalposts (conversion). In soccer, points are scored by kicking the ball into the opponent's net.
- Gameplay: American football involves frequent stopping and starting, with plays designed to advance the ball down the field. Soccer involves continuous play, with players attempting to pass or dribble the ball to create scoring opportunities.
Why is it Called Football in the United States?
The term "football" originally referred to any sport that involved kicking a ball, including soccer and rugby. In the United States, the term "football" gradually became associated with the sport that evolved into modern American football, which originated in the 19th century and gained widespread popularity in the early 20th century.
Related Questions:
- What is the average length of an American football game? (Approximately 3 hours)
- How many players are on the field for each team in American football? (11)
- What is the Super Bowl? (The championship game of the National Football League)
- Why is soccer called football in most countries outside the United States? (It was the original term for the sport)
- What is the most important skill in soccer? (Passing)
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