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Football for Dummies
Updated to cover new teams, stadiums, and players
The ultimate fan's guide to football whether you're a player or spectator
Want to know more about football? Tackle the game with Howie Long as he delivers the complete scoop on rules, regulations, plays, positions, penalties, and more! Stay on the ball with expert advice on training, conditioning, and equipment, and meet today's hottest players and coaches. You'll decipher the Xs and Os with diagrams that make it a snap!
Author Biography: Howie Long, former Oakland Raiders defensive end, was elected to the pro football Hall of Fame in 2000.
Jon Czarnecki is a regular contributor to Inside Sports.
432 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 1998
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 63 reviews
August 6, 2025
UUUUUHGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGHHHH
read this cover to cover, free will is so stupid sometimes
read this cover to cover, free will is so stupid sometimes
March 19, 2020
Read this informational a couple of years ago and it's packed with material that's easy to understand and read. A great book for anyone wanting to know more about American Football.
September 15, 2024
Contains a ton of VERY helpful information, if you’re a total football novice like me. I recently started watching games, and wanted to know what exactly I was looking at—it was all very exciting, but more than a little chaotic, and often difficult to discern just who was doing what and why, as it all happens so fast. Anyway, this helped to clarify things tremendously; I now feel I have a reasonably firm grasp of the basics, which has made games even more fun to watch! Highly recommended for absolute beginners, as it’s probably far too simple for anyone else, but then the title already makes this abundantly clear, or it should. Written in a very accessible style too!
July 27, 2024
As a boy, I played a lot of street football. Over the years I have watched on TV a thousand games. I picked up this book to update myself on the more intricate offensive and defensive strategies that have been evolving over the decades. Also, I wanted to catch up on the finer points of the rules since there is a new emphasis on replays and rule challenges in the NFL.
This book, which I assure you is not only for dummies, provides a good overview of all of these areas.
The book is written by a former defensive end, so the work is presented with an emphasis on the defensive players and game...which a found a little one sided. But overall, it is a good review and update for fans at any level (except professional players maybe). I did appreciate some of the comparisons with college and high school football. The edition I read did not address the newer leagues like the UFL, which have some unique rules, but I think a new edition is forthcoming.
This book, which I assure you is not only for dummies, provides a good overview of all of these areas.
The book is written by a former defensive end, so the work is presented with an emphasis on the defensive players and game...which a found a little one sided. But overall, it is a good review and update for fans at any level (except professional players maybe). I did appreciate some of the comparisons with college and high school football. The edition I read did not address the newer leagues like the UFL, which have some unique rules, but I think a new edition is forthcoming.
January 13, 2024
So far it’s pretty basic. Not really much new information but let’s see what the more complicated parts have to offer. Some of the references are out of date. That being said it’s supposed to be a book for people who know nothing about football so I’m that respect it’s an excellent breakdown. 3.5 stars.
January 29, 2008
My goal for the past 8 years of my marriage has been to understand the ever-popular American game of Football (appropriate goal, since I married to a Football guru who now wants to go in to sports orthopedics)! My next goal, after checking this book out a month ago, was to have it read by the Super bowl. I'm on page 180 of a 400 page book. Time to knuckle down. It reads a bit like a dictionary and is giving me more info than I think I need to enjoy the game, however, it makes me look smart when I ask Aaron "intelligent" questions about the kicking game, the defense and the offense. I wouldn't recommend it for pleasure reading. It's simply the book I'm crazy enough to want to get through at the moment.
July 13, 2012
Fueled by the community's enthusiasm in support of Tim Tebow last season, I jumped on the bandwagon and became a football fan - a Broncos fan. It wasn't long before it was more than excitement; I wanted to learn more about the game.
I love this book because it's easy to understand, humorous at times, and a handy reference. I learned a lot leafing through it throughout last football season, even impressing my uber-athletic sister with some of my newly acquired knowledge. It covers the basics, positions, strategies, history, and more.
I'm sure I'll be pulling it out again soon as a reference when football season resumes in a few weeks!
I love this book because it's easy to understand, humorous at times, and a handy reference. I learned a lot leafing through it throughout last football season, even impressing my uber-athletic sister with some of my newly acquired knowledge. It covers the basics, positions, strategies, history, and more.
I'm sure I'll be pulling it out again soon as a reference when football season resumes in a few weeks!
December 31, 2012
This year my Aggies had an amazing season and I decided I wanted to understand the game better. I've watched the Aggies for years, so I knew most of the basics, but this was a pretty good intro to the plays and strategies of the game. It's a little dry but informative, although there was a lot I didn't really care or need to know. I'll probably continue to use it as a reference from time to time.
January 25, 2015
Excellent resources for those who want to learn more about the game which so many people spend their Friday nights, Saturday afternoons and most of Sundays watching (also Monday and Thursday nights). For instance, I never realized that a range of jersey numbers were designated for certain positions. (I learned a lot more than that, but that was definitely a duh moment.) Liked the writing style, too. Very accessible.
November 7, 2014
I was mostly interested in the "penalty" section and it had great graphics and drawings of the hand signals used by the refs. But there is no way I could remember them all - I'd like a pocket edition with just those drawings , etc.
June 15, 2015
Some good nuggets, lots of fluff
This book probably has a little something for everybody, but catering to such a wide audience means that often, too much of the material is irrelevant to the reader.
This book probably has a little something for everybody, but catering to such a wide audience means that often, too much of the material is irrelevant to the reader.
February 3, 2020
I've watched and learned about football for going on 10 years but as there were still a few things that I don't get about the sport, I picked up this book. It was perfect timing to read this - during playoffs and and finished on Super Bowl Sunday.
This was a pretty comprehensive guide with information that ranged from too basic for me (such as downs, touchdowns, and field goals) to information that really didn't stick with me such as the different routes that players run to make a play. I suppose that what I got most out of the book was a greater understanding of the different positions played.
Howie Long, a former defensive player, was a pretty good author in that he put a bit of humor into the book and while he certainly knows a lot about the game, his explanations (even the simple ones) never felt condescending and there were lots of facts and diagrams. I'd recommend this to anyone looking to get a better understanding of football. You don't have to read the entire book from cover to cover; it's set up such that you could read whatever sections that would be most helpful.
This was a pretty comprehensive guide with information that ranged from too basic for me (such as downs, touchdowns, and field goals) to information that really didn't stick with me such as the different routes that players run to make a play. I suppose that what I got most out of the book was a greater understanding of the different positions played.
Howie Long, a former defensive player, was a pretty good author in that he put a bit of humor into the book and while he certainly knows a lot about the game, his explanations (even the simple ones) never felt condescending and there were lots of facts and diagrams. I'd recommend this to anyone looking to get a better understanding of football. You don't have to read the entire book from cover to cover; it's set up such that you could read whatever sections that would be most helpful.
August 23, 2023
I could talk myself into three stars for this. The diagrams are very helpful. Background: I am hoping to assist with my son's rec team and am trying to pick up on a few things I may have missed on bring away from the game for two decades.
It doesn't look like much.
The collaborators would have benefited from adding more on specific plays and explanations on when those plays are successful.
It doesn't look like much.
The collaborators would have benefited from adding more on specific plays and explanations on when those plays are successful.
January 28, 2018
The book jumps around a lot, and I can't help that reading it in sequential order is actually the wrong way to read it. However, it does make Football more enjoyable if you have no idea about the game...
February 10, 2021
Football season is over, and I didn't finish the book (it's not exactly easy reading) but I did learn a few things, like why holding is a penalty when they're constantly grabbing each other! Will probably pick it up again next August.
February 28, 2021
The 'for Dummies' is a bit of a misnomer as it's that and some. Gets into too much detail in some areas and skims over others for me, but the best starting point into understanding the sport. Recommended.
August 17, 2022
Overall, I enjoyed reading this. Though it was at a very low level, it did meet one of my goals, which was to gain a little better understanding of football defenses. Howie Long's personal stories were interesting and added a bit of color to the subject.
January 13, 2018
The first half of this book is outstanding. However, the last third or so seems to be mostly filler.
October 10, 2018
I couldn't get into all the technical plays, but I understand the positions and general rules of the game now. And I appreciated Howie Long's commentary on the game.
October 5, 2020
Kind of good for beginners.
February 7, 2021
I listened to this as an audiobook, which I do not recommend. The narrator assumes you also have the print book, and frequently refers to pictures and diagrams.
June 15, 2021
Very basic obviously but still picked up some points I didn’t know about NFL and NCCA history.
November 16, 2021
Great book if you'd like to understand American Football better.
August 20, 2022
It's quite dry in places, but does what it's meant to do!
Read
August 22, 2022A good overview of the game. I learned a few things to watch for this fall
December 17, 2022
Did I enjoy this? No. Did I learn what I needed? Yes. Mission accomplished. I hope.
April 11, 2024
Still attempting to learn!
November 13, 2025
An excellent reference. I actually did learn a few things to my pleasant surprise.
August 17, 2024
As a big football fan, it’s somewhat embarrassing to admit that amidst all the great books written on football strategy, Football for Dummies stands out as the most complete and intuitive introduction to American football I have ever read. In the world of football literature, "franchise" style books are often overlooked, much like in the world of PC games. But if you're looking for the best beginner crash course, this is the book.
The book touches upon every imaginable topic within American football, offering lean, digestible explanations that make even the most complex aspects of the game easy to understand. Its beautiful formatting and illustrations make it not just informative, but also an enjoyable read. Whether you’re picking it up to skim through or using it as a companion during matches, it’s an easy and accessible resource.
Some pleasant surprises I found during the read include the section on referee gesticulations for different penalties and happenings during the match, which helps demystify those often confusing hand signals. Additionally, there’s a beautifully formatted list of penalties by yardage, making it easy to reference during games.
The book doesn’t slouch on historical context either, but unlike other books, it does not lean on it too heavily to the point where you feel you should be writing names down. Instead, it provides just enough history to enhance your understanding without overwhelming you.
With this book, you’ll get a glimpse of everything football, including peripheral topics like fandom, college football, fantasy football, front office and back office dealings, and more. It’s comprehensive without being overwhelming, making it an ideal resource for those who want to understand the game in all its facets.
This book will be the one to finally help you understand the difference and nuances between a hook or curl route, the intricacies of a 4-3 defense versus a 3-4 defense, what strategies should be employed against different formations and schemes, and even the algebra of when to go for it on 4th down.
Overall, Football for Dummies is an outstanding resource for anyone looking to deepen their understanding of the game, whether you’re a complete beginner or just brushing up on the basics.
The book touches upon every imaginable topic within American football, offering lean, digestible explanations that make even the most complex aspects of the game easy to understand. Its beautiful formatting and illustrations make it not just informative, but also an enjoyable read. Whether you’re picking it up to skim through or using it as a companion during matches, it’s an easy and accessible resource.
Some pleasant surprises I found during the read include the section on referee gesticulations for different penalties and happenings during the match, which helps demystify those often confusing hand signals. Additionally, there’s a beautifully formatted list of penalties by yardage, making it easy to reference during games.
The book doesn’t slouch on historical context either, but unlike other books, it does not lean on it too heavily to the point where you feel you should be writing names down. Instead, it provides just enough history to enhance your understanding without overwhelming you.
With this book, you’ll get a glimpse of everything football, including peripheral topics like fandom, college football, fantasy football, front office and back office dealings, and more. It’s comprehensive without being overwhelming, making it an ideal resource for those who want to understand the game in all its facets.
This book will be the one to finally help you understand the difference and nuances between a hook or curl route, the intricacies of a 4-3 defense versus a 3-4 defense, what strategies should be employed against different formations and schemes, and even the algebra of when to go for it on 4th down.
Overall, Football for Dummies is an outstanding resource for anyone looking to deepen their understanding of the game, whether you’re a complete beginner or just brushing up on the basics.
October 28, 2024
Who is this for, exactly? That was the question I kept coming back to while reading Football for Dummies, which I read on a lark while perusing football-related titles on Audible. It was free, so why not? The difficulty of listening to such a diagram-heavy book, of course, led me to break down and buy it on Kindle, which I think was worth it. About a third, maybe half of Football for Dummies is informationally rich, and a great primer for those like me who want to go a bit deeper than the average fan, while not wanting to be totally overloaded with knowledge.
Yet, even in that task, Football for Dummies falls a bit short, spending too much time, for example, on outmoded defensive concepts. This is fine in a vacuum, of course, but the book gets pretty bogged down in trying to straddle historical stage-setting and actually explaining the game. To be fair, however, it's not like there's anything I could have reasonably expected to replace such content. Indeed, everything more I'd want from it would probably be unnecessary, since Long et al. do a good job of covering the fundamentals. Thus, while I was left wanting a little more, I think the bases are covered well enough to earn the "for Dummies" moniker.
Then again, there's so much dang fluff here, and to give it credit for how useful the meat-and-potatoes sections are is also to ignore the book's bizarre sequencing. You almost wonder if they needed to hit a page count: I'm sure few who pick up this book are particularly interested in the various "Top 10" lists that fill the back stretch of it, for example.
Ultimatelym Football for Dummies is a successful text for people who already have a mild interest in the sport, and it will serve them decently well as an informational tome. I don't think I'd give it to a football-agnostic partner, though, and it speaks to the difficulty of selling an incredibly complex, often dull game to those unconcerned with the fervent fandom surrounding it.
Yet, even in that task, Football for Dummies falls a bit short, spending too much time, for example, on outmoded defensive concepts. This is fine in a vacuum, of course, but the book gets pretty bogged down in trying to straddle historical stage-setting and actually explaining the game. To be fair, however, it's not like there's anything I could have reasonably expected to replace such content. Indeed, everything more I'd want from it would probably be unnecessary, since Long et al. do a good job of covering the fundamentals. Thus, while I was left wanting a little more, I think the bases are covered well enough to earn the "for Dummies" moniker.
Then again, there's so much dang fluff here, and to give it credit for how useful the meat-and-potatoes sections are is also to ignore the book's bizarre sequencing. You almost wonder if they needed to hit a page count: I'm sure few who pick up this book are particularly interested in the various "Top 10" lists that fill the back stretch of it, for example.
Ultimatelym Football for Dummies is a successful text for people who already have a mild interest in the sport, and it will serve them decently well as an informational tome. I don't think I'd give it to a football-agnostic partner, though, and it speaks to the difficulty of selling an incredibly complex, often dull game to those unconcerned with the fervent fandom surrounding it.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 63 reviews