TABLE TOP FOOTBALL GAME

Abstract

A football table game includes a game table having a football field playing surface, receiver icons spaced from one another over the playing surface, a first set of coin chips used by a team on offense for attempting passes, a second set of coin chips used by a team on defense to defend against the pass, a first die used by the team on offense for attempting a running play, and a second die used by the team on defense for defending against the running play. The table game includes goal posts erected in the end zones and miniature footballs that are flicked through the goal posts during field goal and extra point attempts. The first team to score more than 21 points wins the game.

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The present patent application is directed to games and is more specifically directed to a football game having a replica football field with a playing surface and game pieces that are used by two teams to play a football game.

2. Description of the Related Art

Before a football game begins, football fans typically pass the time by tailgating and watching pre-game TV shows. Football fans also typically eat food, drink beverages, and play games such as bean bag toss, pool, darts, and ping pong. None of these activities, however, are football related.

In response, a number of football-themed board games have been developed. In general, these football-themed games use game pieces to represent football players and establish rules which enable offensive and defensive maneuvers to be performed in a manner similar to a real football game.

Typically, these existing games require the use of dice, cards, and spin boards when playing a game. Unfortunately, these available games rely on chance rather than real football related skills involving physical activity.

Thus, there remains a need for a football themed table game that simulates, as closely as possible, the playing of a real football game. There also remains a need for an exciting and easy to play football themed game for football fans that does not require electronics, video screens, or complicated buttons. Moreover, there remains a need for a large sized board game that allows football fans to play a football game involving passing, running and kicking footballs.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present application discloses an interactive large sized board game that was created for football fans. Using the roll of the dice and coin chips on a replica football field, players can immerse themselves in total football action. The game is easy to play and involves passing coin chips down the field to attempt to land on receiver icons.

The object of the game is to be the first team to score more than 21 points. A pass is completed by landing a coin chip on a designated receiver icon that is placed on the field. 3rd down and 1? No problem, roll the dice against the defense and run the ball to pick up an important first down late in the game. Now you're in field goal range, take the miniature football and split the uprights from 45 yards out to win the game. The game may be played at home, on college campuses, tailgating or just about anywhere fun is allowed.

In one embodiment, the object of the game is to throw and land offensive coin chips onto one of the receiver icons that are positioned on the playing field. Landing a coin chip on a receiver icon results in a completed pass. The defense uses its coin chips to attempt to cover the receiver icons by placing the defensive coin chips in the front, back, or on the side of the receiver icons.

In one embodiment, a football table game includes a game table having a football field playing surface, receiver icons spaced from one another over the football field playing surface, a first set of coin chips used by a team on offense for attempting a pass, and a second set of coin chips used by a team on defense for defending against the pass. In one embodiment, the team on offense completes a pass by tossing one of the first set of coin chips downfield and landing the tossed coin chip on one of the receiver icons. In one embodiment, the team on defense defends against the pass by placing the second set of coin chips around the receiver icons to prevent the offense from landing a tossed coin chip on one of the receiver icons.

In one embodiment, the football table game includes a first die used by the team on offense for attempting a running play, and a second die used by the team on defense for defending against the running play. In one embodiment, the first die used by the team on offense has twenty sides numbered from one to twenty, and the second die used by the team on defense has twelve sides numbers from one to twelve.

In one embodiment, during a running play, the team on offense gains yardage if the number rolled using the first die is greater than the number rolled using the second die. In one embodiment, during a running play, the team on offense loses yards if the number rolled using the first die is less than the number rolled using the second die. In one embodiment, during a running play, the team on offense loses possession in the number rolled using the first die equals the number rolled using the second die.

In one embodiment, the football table game has at least one goal post erected at one end of the game table, and at least one football that is adapted to be flicked through the at least one goal post during field goal and extra point attempts.

In one embodiment, the football table game has the football field playing surface including side lines, end lines, yard lines, hash marks, two point conversion lines, two end zones, and first down markers.

In one embodiment, the game table has a folded configuration for storage and transport and an unfolded configuration for playing the football table game. The game table may have handles secured thereto for lifting and transporting the game table.

In one embodiment, the game table has sections that are pivotally secured together. In one embodiment, the game table has foldable legs that are pivotally secured to an underside of the sections of the game table.

In one embodiment, the football includes a miniature foam football that is adapted to be held over the football field playing surface and flicked by a player's finger toward the goal post during field goal and extra point attempts.

In one embodiment, the football table game has at least one goal post backstop having a net that is erected behind a goal post for capturing the footballs when they are flicked toward the goal post.

In one embodiment, the first set of coin chips used by the team on offense consists of five double-sided coin chips, one side of which has a “pick six” designation, and the second set of coin chips used by the team on defense consists of five double-sided coin chips, one side of which has a “pick six” designation.

In one embodiment, the receiver icons are pre-positioned over the football field playing surface including in the end zones of the football field playing surface. In one embodiment, the receiver icons have the appearance of receiver hands preparing to catch a football.

In one embodiment, a team wins a football game by being the first team to score more than 21 points. In one embodiment, a touchdown equals six points, a field goal equals three points, a two point conversion equals two points, a safety equals two points, and an extra point equals one point.

In one embodiment, a football field playing surface includes two end zones and a replica 100 yard field that extends between the two end zones. In one embodiment, the receiver icons are located in the two end zones and over the replica 100 yard football field.

In one embodiment, a football table game includes a game table having a football field playing surface, the game table having a folded configuration for storage and transport and an unfolded configuration for playing a game, receiver icons spaced from one another over the football field playing surface, a first set of coin chips used by a team on offense for attempting a pass, a second set of coin chips used by a team on defense for defending against the pass, a first die used by the team on offense for attempting a running play, a second die used by the team on defense for defending against the running play, a first goal post erected in a first end zone at a first end of the football field playing surface, a second goal post erected in a second end zone at a second end of the football field playing surface, and at least one football that is adapted to be flicked through the goal posts during field goal and extra point attempts.

In one embodiment, the team on offense completes a pass by tossing one of the first set of coin chips downfield and landing the one of the first set of coin chips on one of the receiver icons, and the team on defense defends against the pass by placing the second set of coin chips around the receiver icons to prevent the one of the first set of coin chips from landing on the one of the receiver icons.

These and other preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in more detail below.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWING

FIGS. 1A-1E show a method of setting up a game table for a football table game, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.

FIGS. 2A-2D show a method of erecting goal posts and a goal post backstop for the football table game shown in FIGS. 1A-1E.

FIG. 3 shows game pieces used for playing a football table game including miniature footballs, dice, and coin chips, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 4 shows the coin chips shown in FIG. 3.

FIG. 5 shows the back side of two of the coin chips shown in FIGS. 3 and 4.

FIG. 6 shows a top plan view of a section of the game table shown in FIGS. 1A-1E, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.

FIGS. 7 and 8 show the game table of FIG. 6 with coin chips on a playing surface of the game table.

FIGS. 9A and 9B show a method of playing a football table game, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 10 shows a top plan view of an end zone of the game table of a football table game, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.

FIGS. 11A and 11B show receiver icons on a playing surface of a game table of a football table game, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.

FIGS. 12-17 show a method of playing a football table game, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 18 shows a football table game including a game table and a scoreboard secured over a playing surface of the game table, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 19 shows a football table game including a game table and a light secured over a playing surface of the game table for providing illumination, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

In one embodiment, a football table game includes a football game table, which may be folded for transport between locations. The football table game may include two goal posts that are erected atop the opposite ends of the table, two dice—one for the team on offense and one for the team on defense, two or more miniature footballs that are used for kicking field goals and extra points using the goal posts, ten (10) coin chip—10 coin chips—five for the team on offense and five for the team on defense. In one embodiment, the football table game may include one or more goal post backstops that have nets for capturing the kicked miniature footballs.

Referring to FIG. 1A, in one embodiment, the football table game includes a football game table 30. In FIG. 1A, the game table 30 is shown in a folded configuration for storage or transport. In one embodiment, the game table 30 has one or more handles 32 that are secured to a side edge 34 of one of the table sections. The handles 32 are used for lifting and carrying the game table 30 for transporting from one location to another location.

Referring to FIG. 1B, in one embodiment, the game table 30 has four table sections 36A-36D that are pivotally connected together so that the game table can be folded for storage/transport and unfolded for use when playing a game.

Referring to FIG. 1C, in one embodiment, the game table 30 includes support legs 40 that are pivotally secured to the undersides of the table sections. In FIG. 1C, first support legs 40A are pivotally secured to an underside of first table section 36A and second support legs 40B are pivotally secured to an underside of second table section 36B.

FIG. 1D shows the game table 30 when fully unfolded and before the support legs 40 are deployed. In one embodiment, first support legs 40A are pivotally secured to the underside of first table section 36A, second support legs 30B are pivotally secured to the underside of second table section 36B, and third support legs 40D are pivotally secured to the underside of fourth table section 36D. In one embodiment, no support legs are secured to the underside of the third table section 36C.

In one embodiment, a first handle 32A is secured to the lateral edge of the first table section 36A and a second handle 32B is secured to the lateral edge of the second table section 36D.

Referring to FIG. 1E, in one embodiment, the support legs 40A-40C are pivoted into an erected configuration for supporting the table sections 36A-36D. In one embodiment, the first support legs 40A support the outer edge of the first table section 36A for providing leg support for a first end of the game table 30. In one embodiment, the second support legs 36B support the center of the game table 30 where an edge of the second table section 36B opposes an edge of the third table section 36C. In one embodiment, the third support legs 40D support the outer edge of the fourth table section 36D for providing leg support for a second end of the game table 30.

In one embodiment, the support legs 40A, 40B, 40D include a base 42 that is pivotally secured to an underside of a table section and an extendable section 44 that is telescopically received in the base 42. In one embodiment, the support legs have spring loaded release buttons 46 that hold the extendable section 44 of the support leg in the fully extended position shown in FIG. 1E. In one embodiment, the spring loaded release buttons 46 may be depressed to allow the extendable section 44 to be retracted into the base 42. FIG. 1D shows the extended sections 44 of the support legs retracted into the respective bases 42.

Referring to FIG. 1E, in one embodiment, the football table game includes game instructions that are secured to the game table 30. In one embodiment, a first set of game instructions 46A are secured to the first handle 32A of the first table section 36A, and a second set of game instructions 46B are secured to the fourth table section 36D. In one embodiment, a supplemental set of game instructions 46C are secured to the underside of the second and third table sections 36B, 36C.

In one embodiment, the football table game includes a game piece container 48 that is secured to one of the handles 32A, 32B. The game piece container 48 may be used to secure the game pieces that are used to play the football table game, as will be described in more detail herein.

FIG. 2A shows the game table 30 in a deployed configuration with the table sections 36A-36D fully unfolded so that the top surfaces of the table sections define a planar surface 50 that extends from a first end 52 of the game table 30 to a second end 54 of the game table. In one embodiment, the planar surface 50 has a replica of a football field provided thereon including end lines 56A, 56B, side lines 58A, 58B, end zones 60A, 60B, yard lines 62, hash marks 64, two point conversion lines 66, first down markers 68, and receiver icons 70. In one embodiment, the replica of the football field is printed or laminated onto the planar surface 50 of the game table 30.

In one embodiment, the football table game includes a pair of goal posts 72A, 72B that are erected at the respective first and second ends 52, 54 of the game table 30. The football table game also desirable includes game pieces 74 for playing the game as will be described in more detail herein. When not being used, the game pieces 74 are desirably secured in the game piece container 48 secured to one of the handles 32.

Referring to FIGS. 2A and 2B, in one embodiment, the second end 54 of the game table 30 or the outer edge of the fourth table section 36D includes a central hole 76 and a pair of outer holes 78A, 78B. In one embodiment, the first end 52 or outer edge of the first table section 36A also includes a central hole and a pair of outer holes. In one embodiment, a base 80 of the second goal post 72B is inserted into the central hole 76 to erect the second goal post at the second end 54 of the game table 30. The first goal post 72A is erected in a similar fashion at the first end 52 of the game table 30.

Referring to FIGS. 2B-2D, in one embodiment, the football table game includes a goal post backstop 82 having a first post 84A, a second post 84B and a net 86 that extends from the first post 84A to the second post 84B for capturing kicked miniature footballs. To erect the goal post backstop 82, the first post 84A is inserted into the first outer hole 78A and the second post 84B is inserted into the second outer hole 78B.

FIG. 2D shows the erected second goal post 72B and the erected goal post backstop 82. The net 86 that extends between the first and second posts 84A, 84B of the backstop 82 is designed to capture footballs that are kicked at the second goal post 72B. In one embodiment, the opposite first end of the game table 30 may include an erect first goal post 72A (FIG. 2B) and a goal post backstop that captures footballs kicked at the first goal post.

Referring to FIG. 3, in one embodiment, the football table game includes a set of game pieces 74 that are used by players when playing a game. In one embodiment, the set of game pieces includes miniature footballs 90 that are used by the players when kicking field goals and extra points. In one embodiment, the miniature footballs 90 are made of foam. In one embodiment, players use their fingers for kicking the footballs 90. Although two footballs 90 are shown in FIG. 3, in other embodiments, a football table game may include fewer or more miniature footballs.

In one embodiment, the game pieces 74 include a first die 92 for use by the team on offense. In one embodiment, the first die 92 is a multi-sided die with a unique number on each side of the die. In one embodiment, the first die 92 has twenty (20) sides that are numbered from one to twenty (1-20).

In one embodiment, the game pieces 74 include a second die 94 for use by the team on defense. In one embodiment, the second die 94 is a multi-sided die with a unique number on each side of the die. In one embodiment, the second die 94 has twelve (12) sides that are numbered from one to twelve (1-12).

In one embodiment, the game pieces 74 include a first set of five coin chips 96A-96E that are used by a first team, and a second set of five coin chips 98A-98E that are used by a second team.

Referring to FIGS. 3 and 4, in one embodiment, each one of the first set of five coin chips 96A-96E is double sided. The first sides of all of the coin chips 96A-96E have the same symbol provided thereon (e.g., the Football 21 logo), however, one of the second sides of one of the coin chips 96A (FIG. 4) has a “pick 6” symbol provided thereon, which will be described in more detail herein.

Similarly, in one embodiment, each one of the second set of five coin chips 98A-98E is double sided. The first sides of all of the coin chips 98A-98E have the same symbol provided thereon (e.g., the “Football 21” logo), however, one of the second sides of one of the coin chips 98A (FIG. 4) has a “pick 6” symbol provided thereon, which will be described in more detail herein.

FIG. 5 shows a magnified view of the “pick six” sides of the coin chips 96A, 98A. In one embodiment, the coin chips 96A-96E and 98A-98E are placed atop the playing surfaced with the “Football 21” logo facing up so that the “pick 6” sides of the coins are facing down and not visible.

In one embodiment, each coin chip has a weight of about 12-15 grams and more specifically about 14 grams. The 14 gram weight provides more control of the coin chip as the coin chip is tossed down the field during a pass attempt. It has been observed that a 14 gram coin chip does not skip and/or bounce off the top surface of the table top as readily as a lighter coin chip.

Referring to FIG. 6, in one embodiment, the football table game includes a plurality of receiver icons 70 that are positioned at different locations atop the playing surface 50 of the game table 30. In one embodiment, the receiver icons 70 are pre-positioned at certain locations on the football field playing surface and may not be moved. In one embodiment, at the start of a game or during the game, the receiver icons 70 may be moved by the players and repositioned at different locations on the football field playing surface as part of formulating a defensive strategy.

In one embodiment, the game table 30 includes first down markers 68. The first down markers 68 may be positioned at different intervals along the length of the field. In one embodiment, the first down markers 68 are positioned every 10 yards (e.g., the FIG. 2A embodiment) along the length of the field. In one embodiment, the first down markers 68 are positioned every 20 yards along the length of the field. During play, if a player advances to or beyond a first down marker, a player is awarded a first down and a new set of four downs to mark the next first down.

Referring to FIG. 7, in one embodiment, the defensive player may place three coin chips 98A-98C at any desired location on the playing surface 50. In one embodiment, the defensive player may place the coin chips 98A-98C in front of, behind or next to receiver icons 70 to attempt to prevent an offensive player from completing a pass.

Referring to FIGS. 7 and 8, in one embodiment, once every four downs, a defensive player may “blitz” the offensive player by placing five coin chips 98A-98E on the playing surface 50, rather than only three coin chips 98A-98C. FIG. 7 shows a play with no “blitz” having three coin chips 98A-98C on the playing surface 50. FIG. 8 shows a play during a defensive “blitz” with five coin chips 98A-98E on the playing surface 50.

Referring to FIG. 9A, in one embodiment, an offensive player attempts a pass by tossing a coin chip 96A onto the playing surface. A pass is completed if the offensive player is able to land a chip 96A on one of the icons 70. During a pass attempt, the offensive player's hand must remain behind the line of scrimmage. Passing the line of scrimmage will result in a penalty.

FIG. 9B shows the offensive player's coin chip 96A after it has been tossed onto the playing surface 50 during a pass attempt. The defensive player's coin chips 98A-98D are blocking some of the receiver icons 70 on the playing surface 50. In FIG. 9B, the attempted pass is incomplete because the coin chip 96A tossed by the offensive player did not land on one of the receiver icons.

Referring to FIG. 10, in one embodiment, the playing surface 50 includes receiver icons 70 located in the end zone 60. If an offensive player in near the end zone 60, the defensive player may position defensive coin chips 98A-98C near receiver icons 70 located in the end zone. In one embodiment, if an offensive player tosses a coin chip that lands atop a defensive coin chip 98A-98C, then the defense has intercepted the football and control of the ball is turned over to the defensive team that made the interception.

Referring to FIGS. 11A and 11B, in one embodiment, the playing surface 50 of the game table has receiver icons 70 having the appearance of two hands preparing to catch a football. In one embodiment, different colored receiver icons 70 may be used to represent different teams. In one embodiment, some of the receiver icons 70 may be larger than other receiver icons to make it easier to complete a pass to the larger sized receiver icons.

Referring to FIG. 12, in one embodiment, a defensive player may strategically place a defensive coin chip 98A on the playing surface 50 to make it difficult for an offensive player to land an offensive coin chip 96A on a receiver icon 70. In FIG. 12, the defensive coin chip 98A has been positioned in front of the icon 70. In spite of the defensive player's efforts, the offensive coin chip 96A has landed on the receiver icon 70 and a pass has been completed. The offense advances to the leading edge 97 of the offensive coin chip 96A, which is about the 47 yard line.

FIG. 13 shows the result of another pass attempt. The defensive coin chip 98A blocks the receiver icon 70. The offensive coin chip 96A has landed on the receiver icon. The offensive team advances to the leading edge 97 of the offensive coin chip 96A, which is about the 45 yard line.

Referring to FIG. 14, in one embodiment, rather than passing the football by attempting to land an offensive coin chip 96A on a receiver icon 70, the offensive team may attempt to run the football by rolling the offensive die 92. In one embodiment, the number on the rolled offensive die 92 is compared to the number on the rolled defensive die 94. If the offensive number is greater than the defensive number, then the offensive team has gained yardage equal to the difference between the two numbers. If the offensive number is less than the defensive number, then the offensive team has lost yardage equal to the difference between the two numbers. If the offensive number is equal to the defensive number, then the offensive team has fumbled the ball and the defenses team takes over control of the football at the line of scrimmage.

In FIG. 14, the number 19 has been rolled on the offensive die 92 and the number 12 has been rolled on the defensive die 94, which indicates a seven yard running gain for the offensive team. As a result, the leading edge 97 of the offensive coin chip 96A is advance seven yards from the 36 yard line to the 43 yard line.

In FIG. 15, the number 7 has been rolled on the offensive die 92 and the number 11 has been rolled on the defensive die 94, which indicates a four yard running loss for the offensive team. As a result, the leading edge 97 of the offensive coin chip 96A is backed up four yards from the 36 yard line to the 32 yard line.

In FIG. 16, the number 10 has been rolled on the offensive die 92 and the number 10 has been rolled on the defensive die 94, which indicates a fumble of the football by the offensive team and a recovery of the football by the defensive team. As a result, the defensive team takes over control of the football at the leading edge 97 of the offensive coin chip 96A (i.e., the 36 yard line).

Referring to FIG. 17, in one embodiment, during field goal and extra point attempts, the players may use their fingers to attempt to kick the football 90 through the uprights and above the cross bar of the goal post 72B. In one embodiment, the player attempting the kick holds the football with a first hand on the playing surface 50 and strikes the football 90 with one or more fingers of the second hand.

Referring to FIG. 18, in one embodiment, a football table game may include a scoreboard 110 secured over the playing surface 50 of the game table 30.

Referring to FIG. 19, in one embodiment, a football table game may include one or more lights 112 secured over the playing surface 50 of the game table 30 for illuminating the playing surface 50.

In one embodiment, two teams play a football table game using the game table and the game pieces disclosed herein. In one embodiment, the first team to score more than 21 points wins the game. Points may be scored by throwing a touchdown pass with a coin chip into the end zone and landing it on any of the receiver icons located in the end zone. Points may also be scored by running the football into the end zone using the offensive and defensive dice. Points may also be scored by kicking a field goal, kicking an extra point after a touchdown, a two point conversion after a touchdown, and/or by making a safety for two points. In other embodiments, a player may win a game by scoring 21 or fewer points if the players agree to those rules prior to the start of a game.

In one embodiment, each team may have one player. In one embodiment, each team may have two or more players. In one embodiment, when each team has three players, each player on a team may elect to play either offense, defense, or kicker.

In one embodiment, each team will choose a sideline that they must stay on when not in the game.

In one embodiment, a coin toss at the 50 yard line of heads or tails shall determine which team receives the ball first.

In one embodiment, there are no kickoffs during the game. The winner of the coin toss begins a drive at the 20 yard-line and does the same after a score, as well.

In one embodiment, the line of scrimmage is marked by placing the front edge of a coin chip to mark the spot on the playing surface.

In one embodiment, the offensive team adheres to advanced rules for the offense.

Line of Scrimmage. In one embodiment, the offensive team uses one of its offensive coin chips to mark the line of scrimmage. After each completed pass, run, punt or interception, the leading edge of the offensive coin chip is used to designate the line of scrimmage at nearest hash mark.

Using hash marks. In one embodiment, players use the nearest hash mark to spot the line of scrimmage. In one embodiment, the offense may spot the coin chip in the middle between hash marks if a completion is in the middle. In one embodiment, using hash marks is important so that field goal attempts are not always spotted in middle of field but may be taken from a left hash mark or a right hash mark.

Throwing a pass. In one embodiment, when passing an offensive coin chip to a receiver icon, the offensive player must “throw” the coin chip in the air. There is no incorrect style to pass a coin chip in the air as long as the chip breaks the playing surface of the field when being thrown. Sliding an offensive chip to pass is not allowed, which is an example of a coin chip not breaking contact with the playing surface thereby constituting a penalty for an illegal pass.

Complete a pass. A pass is attempted by throwing a coin chip downfield in the air while attempting to land on any receiver icon (e.g., receiver's hands). A coin chip that is thrown must come to a complete stop on any of the receiver icons. If any part of the thrown coin chip comes to rest in contact with one of the receiver icons then the result is a pass completion for the offense at the spot of the catch. The leading edge of the coin chip is used to mark the yard line of the completed pass.

Incomplete pass/out of bounds. During a pass attempt, the pass is deemed incomplete if any part of the thrown coin chip lands out of bounds. For example, if the coin chip stops on the white border around the playing field or bounces back into the field of play after hitting any out of bounds line, then the pass attempt is incomplete, even if the offensive coin chip settles is contact with a receiver icon.

Running the ball. The offense may elect to run the ball by announcing out loud to the defense. The offensive player rolls the offense die and a defensive player rolls the defense die. The highest roll from each will gain the difference for the yardage. For example, the offense may roll the number eight (8) and the defense may roll the number five (5). The result of the run attempt would be a positive three yard gain for the offense. If both rolled dice have the same number (i.e., rolling doubles), the result of the play is a turnover for the defense and the defensive team will take over on offense at the spot of the ball at the beginning of the running play.

First down. In one embodiment, the playing field includes first down markers (e.g., orange circles) that are located on each sideline. In one embodiment, the first down markers are spaced every 10 yards. In order to make a first down, the front of the coin chip needs to be equal to or beyond the first down marker.

Touchdown. A touchdown is scored by landing a thrown coin chip on one of the receiver icons located in the end zone. If a thrown coin chip lands on a receiver icon that is not in the end zone, but the leading edge of the coin chip touches the goal line, a touchdown has been scored. A touchdown is also scored when a roll of the dice by both teams results in positive yardage for the offense into the end zone.

Extra point kick. After scoring a touchdown, extra points are attempted from the ten (10) yard line by holding one of the miniature footballs in place on the playing surface with one finger, and then using the other hand to flick the miniature football through the goal post uprights for scoring one extra point.

Two point conversion. After scoring a touchdown, the scoring team calls out loud that it will attempt a two point conversion. Two point conversions are attempted from the two point conversion line on the playing surface. The offense may roll the dice for a run attempt or throw a coin chip for a pass attempt. During a two point conversion attempt, the defense may blitz by using all five defense coin chips, even if a blitz was used during the last set of downs. Gaining two or more yards during a two point conversion attempt results in a successful two point conversion and two points for the offense.

Field goal kick. During a field goal attempt, the football is spotted five yards back from the line of scrimmage. The kicking player must use the left or right hash mark where the football was spotted during the previous play. If a field goal attempt is missed, the opposing team begins offense at the spot of the missed kick.

In one embodiment, field goals attempts are made by holding the football in place on the playing surface with one finger, and then using the other hand to flick the football through the goal post uprights. A successful field goal adds three points to the score of the kicking team.

Punting. A punt is attempted by throwing a coin chip downfield in the air. The receiving team takes possession at the location where the coin chip stops on the playing surface or at the point where the coin chip goes out of bounds. A touchback results if a punted coin chip lands in the end zone or touches the goal line. After a touchback, the receiving team takes possession of the football at its own twenty (20) yard line.

Onside kick. An onside kick may be called by the scoring team after a touchdown, field goal, or safety or at the start of game. The kicking team then calls odds or evens as each team rolls one die. Both dice must read an odd or even number. If an even number is called and both dice show an even number, then the kicking team recovers the onside kick at the fifty (50) yard line. If there is no recovery, the receiving team begins offense at the fifty (50) yard line.

In one embodiment, the defensive team adheres to advanced rules for the defense.

In one embodiment, the objective of the defense is to prevent the offense from completing their passes. In one embodiment, this is done by strategically placing three of the defensive coin chips on the field next to, in front of, or behind any of the receiver icons. By doing so, the defense is also trying to prevent any first downs or touchdowns. The defense will normally place three coin chips on the playing field. The defense may “blitz” once every four downs by placing five coin chips on the playing surface. The defense may not place their coin chips to make any contact with any of the receiver icons. Doing so would result in a pass interference penalty by the defense if the offensive chip is thrown and the offense was to point out the interference after the play.

After each down, the defensive team will always remove from the game table and hold each offensive coin chip that has been thrown by the offense. Doing so will ensure that the downs are being tracked correctly. When the offense achieves a first down, or a change of possession has occurred, the defense will return all of the coin chips to the offense.

Blitzing. A Blitz may be used once every four downs by adding two more coin chips to the defense for a total of five coin chips on the playing surface.

Interception. An interception occurs when an offensive coin chip that is thrown makes any contact with a defensive coin chip and that defensive coin chip has landed on a receiver icon. After an interception, a change of possession occurs at the spot of the interception.

Interception for touchdown “pick 6”. For each team, one side of one of the coin chips is marked “Pick 6”. The “Pick 6” coin chip may be used on each play as one of the defensive coin chips that are placed on the playing surface. Hint—do not let the offense see where you place the “Pick 6” coin chip. Reason—if an interception occurs, and it happens to be a “Pick 6” coin chip, then the defense scores six points.

Fumble. During a run, if the offense and the defense each roll the same number on both dice, the result is a turnover in favor of the defense at the previous spot.

QB Sack. A QB sack is only possible during a defensive blitz. If the offensive coin chip that is thrown makes contact with any one of the five defensive coin chips, then a QB sack is called, even if the pass were to be completed to a receiver. The result of the play is a 10 yard loss for the offense.

Safety. A loss of yardage on either a run or quarterback sack that would exceed more than the yardage available, ultimately bringing the loss into the end zone. Two points are awarded to the defense and possession is awarded to the defense at its own twenty yard line.

In one embodiment, the players may also use easy game rules. The object of the game is for a team to score more than 21 points to win the game.

In one embodiment, a player may score by throwing a touchdown pass with a coin chip into the end zone and landing it on any of the receiver icons. A player may also score by running the ball into the end zone, kicking an extra point after scoring a touchdown, or kicking a field goal.

Starting the game. Each team will choose a sideline that they must stay on the chosen sideline when not in the game. A coin toss at the fifty (50) yard line of heads or tails shall determine which team receives the ball first. There are no kickoffs in the Football 21 game, so the winner of the coin toss begins at the twenty (20) yard line. After a score, all drives begin at the twenty yard line.

The line of scrimmage is always marked with the leading edge of the coin chip.

Easy Directions Offense

Complete a Pass. To complete a pass on offense, a player must throw a coin chip downfield in the air while trying to land on any receiver icon. The coin chip that is thrown must come to a complete stop on any of the receiver icons. If the thrown chip contacts any part of the receiver icon, then the result of the play is a pass completion for the offense at the spot of the catch. The leading edge of the coin chip is always used to mark the line of scrimmage and the spot of a catch.

Running the ball. The offense may elect to run the ball by announcing its intention out loud to the defense. The offensive player rolls the offense die and a defensive player rolls the defense die. The highest roll from each will gain the difference for the yardage. For example, if the offense rolls the number eight (8) and the defense rolls the number five (5), then the yardage would be plus three (3) yards gained for the offense. Rolling doubles by each player will result in a turnover for the defense and the defense takes over on offense at the same spot.

First Down. The first down markers (e.g., orange circles) are located on each sideline to indicate first downs. The first down markers are spaced every 10 yards. The front of the coin chip must be aligned with or beyond the first down marker to make a first down.

Extra point kick. Extra Points are to be attempted from the 10 yard line by holding the mini football in place on the game field with one finger, then using the other hand to flick the mini football through the goal post uprights for one extra point.

Field goal kick. Field Goals may be attempted by holding the mini football in place on the game field with one finger, then using the other hand to flick the mini football through the goal post uprights for three points.

Punting. A punt is attempted by throwing a coin chip downfield in the air. The receiving team takes over where the coin chip stops on the playing surface or at the point where the coin chip goes out of bounds. Landing a punted coin chip in the end zone or touching the goal line results in a touchback. After a touchback, the receiving team takes over at its own twenty (20) yard line.

Touchdown. A touchdown occurs when a thrown coin chip lands on any receiver icon located in an end zone. If a coin chip lands on a receiver icon that is not in the end zone but the leading edge of the coin chip touches the goal line, a touchdown results.

Running the Ball. A roll of the dice by both teams that results in positive yardage for the offense going into end zone, a touchdown results.

Easy Directions Defense

Place three defense coin chips anywhere on the game field for strategically preventing the offense from landing on any receiver icons as they try to obtain first downs and touchdowns. When positioned on the playing surface, no defensive coin chips may contact any receiver icons.

Blitzing. A Blitz may be used one time every four downs by adding two more coin chips to the defense for a total of five coin chips.

Interception. An interception occurs when a passed offensive coin chip makes contact with any defensive chip that was placed on the playing field and that defensive chip has landed on any of the receiver icons.

Interception for a touchdown “pick 6”. One of the coin chips in each set of five is marked “Pick 6” and may be used every down on defense as one of the three coin chips that are placed on the playing surface by the defense. Hint—do not let the offense see where you place the “Pick 6” coin chip. Reason—if an interception occurs and the defensive coin chip happens to be a “Pick 6” coin chip, then the defense is award six (6) points.

While the foregoing is directed to embodiments of the present invention, other and further embodiments of the invention may be devised without departing from the basic scope thereof, which is only limited by the scope of the claims that follow. For example, the present invention contemplates that any of the features shown in any of the embodiments described herein, or incorporated by reference herein, may be incorporated with any of the features shown in any of the other embodiments described herein, or incorporated by reference herein, and still fall within the scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A football table game comprising:

a game table having a football field playing surface;

receiver icons spaced from one another over said football field playing surface;

a first set of coin chips used by a team on offense, wherein said team on offense completes a pass by tossing one of said first set of coin chips downfield and landing the one of said first set of coin chips on one of said receiver icons;

a second set of coin chips used by a team on defense, wherein said team on defense defends against the pass by placing said second set of coin chips around said receiver icons;

a first die used by said team on offense for attempting a running play;

a second die used by said team on defense for defending against the running play;

at least one goal post erected at one end of said game table;

at least one football that is adapted to be flicked through said at least one goal post during field goal and extra point attempts.

2. The football table game as claimed in claim 1, wherein said football field playing surface includes side lines, end lines, yard lines, hash marks, two point conversion lines, two end zones, and first down markers.

3. The football table game as claimed in claim 1, wherein said game table has a folded configuration for storage and transport and an unfolded configuration for playing the football table game.

4. The football table game as claimed in claim 3, wherein said game table has sections that are pivotally secured together.

5. The football table game as claimed in claim 4, wherein said game table has foldable legs that are pivotally secured to an underside of said sections of said game table.

6. The football table game as claimed in claim 1, wherein said at least one football comprises a miniature foam football that is adapted to be held over said football field playing surface and flicked by a player's finger toward said at least one goal post during the field goal and extra point attempts.

7. The football table game as claimed in claim 6, further comprising a goal post backstop including a net that is erected behind said at least one goal post for capturing said at least one football when it is flicked toward said at least one goal post.

8. The football table game as claimed in claim 1, wherein said first die used by said team on offense has twenty sides numbered from one to twenty, and said second die used by said team on defense has twelve sides numbers from one to twelve.

9. The football table game as claimed in claim 8, wherein during a running play the team on offense gains yardage if the number rolled using said first die is greater than the number rolled using said second die.

10. The football table game as claimed in claim 8, wherein during a running play the team on offense loses yards if the number rolled using the first die is less than the number rolled using the second die.

11. The football table game as claimed in claim 8, wherein during a running play the team on offense loses possession in the number rolled using the first die equals the number rolled using the second die.

12. The football table game as claimed in claim 1, wherein said first set of coin chips used by said team on offense consists of five double-sided coin chips, one side of which has a “pick six” designation, and wherein said second set of coin chips used by said team on defense consists of five double-sided coin chips, one side of which has a “pick six” designation.

13. The football table game as claimed in claim 1, wherein said receiver icons are pre-positioned over said football field playing surface including in end zones of said football field playing surface.

14. The football table game as claimed in claim 1, wherein said receiver icons have the appearance of receiver hands preparing to catch a football.

15. The football table game as claimed in claim 1, wherein a football game is won by being the first team to score more than 21 points wherein a touchdown equals six points, a field goal equals three points, a two point conversion equals two points, a safety equals two points, and an extra point equals one point.

16. The football table game as claimed in claim 1, wherein said football field playing surface comprises two end zones and a replica 100 yard field that extends between said two end zones, and wherein said receiver icons are located in said two end zones and said replica 100 yard field.

17. A football table game comprising:

a game table having a football field playing surface, said game table having a folded configuration for storage and transport and an unfolded configuration for playing a game;

receiver icons spaced from one another over said football field playing surface;

a first set of coin chips used by a team on offense for attempting a pass;

a second set of coin chips used by a team on defense for defending against the pass;

a first die used by said team on offense for attempting a running play;

a second die used by said team on defense for defending against the running play;

a first goal post erected in a first end zone at a first end of said football field playing surface;

a second goal post erected in a second end zone at a second end of said football field playing surface;

at least one football that is adapted to be flicked through said goal posts during field goal and extra point attempts.

18. The football game as claimed in claim 17, wherein said team on offense completes a pass by tossing one of said first set of coin chips downfield and landing the one of said first set of coin chips on one of said receiver icons, and wherein said team on defense defends against the pass by placing said second set of coin chips around said receiver icons to prevent the one of said first set of coin chips from landing on the one of said receiver icons.

19. The football table game as claimed in claim 17, wherein said first die used by said team on offense has twenty sides numbered from one to twenty, and said second die used by said team on defense has twelve sides numbers from one to twelve, wherein during a running play the team on offense gains yardage if the number rolled using said first die is greater than the number rolled using said second die, the team on offense loses yards if the number rolled using the first die is less than the number rolled using the second die, and the team on offense loses possession in the number rolled using the first dies equals the number rolled using the second die.

20. The football table game as claimed in claim 17, wherein a football game is won by being the first team to score more than 21 points, wherein a touchdown equals six points, a field goal equals three points, a two point conversion equals two points, a safety equals two points, and an extra point equals one point.