Northern Nevada Spring Football League

2026 NNSFL 5v5 Lineman Rules

Official rulebook for Spring 2026. This format rewards technique, leverage, balance, and control.
Reckless contact is not “tough” in NNSFL, it’s removal.

Core Standard
  • Controlled violence only: technique + balance, no reckless finishes.
  • Safety wins: dangerous contact gets flagged or removed.
  • Authority: referee report is primary authority. NNSFL has final discretion on discipline and disputes.
Zero Tolerance: Punching/fighting/bench-clearing can trigger immediate ejection and team removal.
Setup & Rep Timer
  • Field: 25 × 25 yards
  • Start: whistle
  • Official rep time: 3 seconds
  • Timer authority: referee controls the official timer (no review)
  • Staffing: 1 certified referee per field + Field Supervisor
Eligibility & Substitutions
  • Roster only: only rostered/certified players may participate.
  • No multi-team: no player may compete on multiple teams in the same division.
  • Subs: between reps only.
  • Violations: removal + forfeits possible.
Legal vs Illegal Contact
  • Legal: hands inside frame, controlled displacement, controlled moves.
  • Illegal: bull rush/launching, slams, body-weight takedowns, hands to face/throat.
  • Punching: ejection + tournament removal.
Scoring & Format
  • Rounds 1–2: +2 clear win, +1 edge win, 0 stalemate, -1 loss.
  • Automatic rep loss: major safety foul / illegal technique.
  • Cash Money Round (Round 3): scoring + penalties doubled.
  • Tournament format: 3 rounds per matchup; ties = sudden death reps.
Links to Official Pages

Everything below is the official source of truth (no PDF downloads required).

© NNSFL • Spring 2026 • 5v5 Linemen (Trench)
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