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The rush count

Why the rusher counts before chasing.

One defender, the rusher, may chase the QB. Everyone else covers receivers.

The rusher starts behind the rush line and counts out loud. When the count ends, they may rush.

• The count gives the offense time to get set and throw, and keeps young QBs safe.
• Count out loud so the referee and the QB can hear it: one Mississippi, two Mississippi.
• The QB has a clock too. In many leagues the ball must be thrown within 7 seconds.

Leagues set the count and the rush line differently, often a 5-second count or a line 7 yards back. Go by your league's numbers.

Words in this lesson

Defense

The other team. They stop the play by pulling the ball carrier's flag, or by catching or knocking down the throw.

Rusher

The one defender allowed to chase the QB, after counting out loud first. The count gives the offense time to set up.

QB (quarterback)

The player who starts every play: she hikes the ball to herself, then throws it or hands it off. In most flag leagues the QB cannot run past the line with the ball.