Football season isn’t just about touchdowns, rivalries, and intense fourth-quarter drama—it’s also about the traditions that bring people together. One of the most popular and long-standing game-day traditions across the United States is Football Squares, a fun and easy-to-play game that adds excitement to NFL and NCAA matchups. Whether you’re hosting a Super Bowl party, a college bowl-game gathering, or just watching the game with friends, Football Squares is an entertaining way to keep everyone engaged, even those who don’t follow football closely.
In this article, we’ll dive deep into what Football Squares is, how it works, why so many people love it, and how to make every game more thrilling with this simple yet addictive game board.
What Are Football Squares?
Football Squares, also known as Super Bowl Squares or simply Squares, is a game of chance played using a 10×10 grid. Each square in the grid represents a possible score combination for both teams at the end of a quarter. Participants buy or select squares and hope that the scores at the end of each quarter match the numbers associated with their square.
Although originally associated with NFL games—especially the Super Bowl—Squares are now widely used for NCAA football, bowl games, and even high school matchups.
The game’s universal appeal lies in its simplicity: no football knowledge needed, no complex scoring, and endless fun.
How the Game Works
1. Set Up a 10×10 Grid
A Squares board has 100 boxes (10 rows and 10 columns). One axis is assigned to Team A and the other to Team B. For example:
- Top row: NFL or NCAA Team 1
- Left column: NFL or NCAA Team 2
2. Participants Choose Squares
Players pick one or more squares. Each square typically costs a set amount if playing for prizes (e.g., $1, $5, $10 per square), or in casual games, participants simply write their names in boxes.
3. Assign Numbers 0–9 Randomly
Once all squares are filled, the numbers 0 through 9 are randomly assigned to each row and column. These numbers represent the last digit of each team’s score.
4. Determine Winners After Each Quarter
At the end of each quarter—and sometimes halftime and the final score—winners are determined based on the last digit of each team’s score.
Example:
If the score at the end of the first quarter is:
- Team A: 17
- Team B: 10
Then the winning square is the one where:
- Team A’s row = 7
- Team B’s column = 0
Winners might receive prizes, cash, or fun rewards depending on the group playing.
Why NFL & NCAA Fans Love Football Squares
Football Squares has been a tradition for decades because it’s social, unpredictable, and perfect for parties. Here’s why it continues to be a fan-favorite:
🎉 1. Anyone Can Play
No sports knowledge needed. Even someone who has never watched a game before can join and win.
🔥 2. Excitement Every Quarter
Unlike most games of chance, Football Squares offers multiple chances to win. Every quarter brings a new outcome.
🏆 3. Works for Any Football Level
Whether it’s:
- NFL games
- NCAA bowl games
- Rivalry week matchups
- Playoffs and championship games
Football Squares keeps every match exciting.
👥 4. Great for Group Events
The game encourages participation, conversation, and friendly competition, making it great for:
- Super Bowl parties
- College football gatherings
- Tailgates
- Family game nights
💰 5. Flexible Prize Options
People play for:
- Cash prizes
- Drinks or snacks
- Gift cards
- Fun dares or challenges
- Bragging rights
The prize structure can be adapted for any group.
📊 6. No Special Equipment Needed
A printed grid, a whiteboard, or a digital sheet is all you need.
NFL vs. NCAA Football Squares: What’s Different?
While the rules remain the same, there are a few differences in how NFL and NCAA games affect the fun:
Scoring Variability
- NFL games are generally more predictable.
- NCAA games have higher scoring, making the combinations more dynamic.
Game Length & Quarters
Both leagues follow the same quarter structure, but NCAA halftime shows are longer—perfect for reviewing your grid and preparing for the second half.
Game Volume
With many NCAA teams playing weekly, you can host multiple Squares games throughout the season.
Tips for Making Your Football Squares Game More Fun
✔ Add Halftime Prizes
Instead of awarding prizes only at end of quarters, add:
- Random square draws
- Closest score bonus
- Funny penalty prizes
✔ Use Digital Boards
For parties with remote participants, online boards make it easy for everyone to join.
✔ Let People Buy Multiple Squares
This boosts engagement and increases the celebration when someone wins.
✔ Keep the Rules Clear
Explain how the scoring works before the game starts to avoid confusion.
✔ Create Theme Boards
For NCAA fans, add team colors, mascots, or rivalry themes.
Common Strategies (Even Though It’s Mostly Luck!)
While Football Squares is random, some players still like to strategize. Here are some fun approaches:
1. Look for Historically Strong Numbers
The digits 0, 3, 7, and 4 tend to show up often in football scoring.
2. Avoid Rare Numbers
Scores ending in 2, 5, or 8 are less common in football.
3. Spread Your Picks
Choosing squares across the board increases your chances.
4. Let the Group Randomize the Picks
To keep things fair and fun, many groups let players choose squares before numbers are assigned.
Why Football Squares Will Always Be a Game-Day Favorite
What keeps Football Squares alive year after year is the energy it brings to football gatherings. It’s simple enough for anyone to enjoy, thrilling enough to keep fans watching every minute, and flexible enough to work for NFL, NCAA, bowls, playoffs, and championship games.
Whether you’re a lifelong football fan or just in it for the snacks and socializing, Football Squares transforms every game into a shared celebration.
