Editor’s note: This story was originally published in 2023 and has been updated.
For people who don’t follow the NFL closely, or even those who do, some of the rules can be a bit confusing. So in anticipation of the 2025 Super Bowl we’re going through a few of the rules to help fans get caught up and knowledgeable as they watch their favorite teams.
One rule that’s somewhat confusing is the rule that allows coaches to challenge rulings on the field. Here’s what you need to know about the rule.
- Coaches are given red flags, which they can use to toss onto the field before the next snap. If the flag gets tossed, in initiates an instant replay review.
- Coaches get two challenges a game.
- If the coach fails the challenge, he’s docked a timeout. If he successfully challenges, timeouts remain unchanged. If the coach successfully challenges twice… he gets a third challenge. No fourth challenges ever. If a coach challenges with no timeouts, that’s illegal — and a 15-yard penalty.
- There are some plays that can’t be challenged, for a couple of reasons. Some plays are automatically reviewed every time, so a coach doesn’t need to challenge them — this includes scoring plays, interceptions and a few others. Coaches also can’t challenge some judgment calls made by officials (holding, for example).
- A team can’t commit a penalty before the next snap and then challenge.
Here is the full rule for your perusal:
For The Win
