The game of football consists of a series of plays. Typically, the quarterback receives the snap from the center of the field and either runs with the ball or hands it to a running back. The quarterback is also the leader of the offense, calling plays and signaling from the sidelines. The offensive team scores points by scoring a touchdown or field goal or by kicking the ball to the opposing team.
In the late 1800s, the game began to become increasingly professional. Leading clubs began charging spectators to attend matches. This allowed them to pay illicit wages to attract the best players, many of whom were working class and from Scotland. These working class players sought to enter the professional system to receive financial rewards for their “broken time” and risk of injury. The FA, however, maintained a largely amateur policy.
The team composition of a football team depends on the needs of the team and the circumstances. Every down means a new play for the team. Teams have dozens or hundreds of plays in their playbooks. The plays should be strategically sound. Some of them are safe to use, while others can result in big gains or losses of yardage.
Football is a popular sport worldwide. It evokes great passions and has a profound impact on local communities. For example, the national team of Cote d’Ivoire is said to have helped secure a civil war truce in 2005, according to ESPN. It also played a crucial role during the Yugoslav wars, which resulted in rioting.