Football squares, also known as football pools or Super Bowl squares, are a popular way to add an extra layer of excitement to watching football games, particularly the Super Bowl. The concept is simple: a 10x10 grid is created, and participants buy or are assigned a square. At the end of each quarter, the score is used to determine the winner based on the numbers on the grid. In this article, we'll explore the basics of football squares, provide a printable template, and offer a comprehensive guide to running a successful pool.
How Football Squares Work
The first step in understanding football squares is to learn how the game works. Here's a step-by-step breakdown:
- Create a grid: A 10x10 grid is created, with numbers 0-9 on each axis. This grid will be used to determine the winner.
- Assign squares: Participants buy or are assigned a square on the grid. Each square has a unique combination of numbers, one from the x-axis and one from the y-axis.
- Determine the winner: At the end of each quarter, the score is used to determine the winner. The last digit of each team's score is used to find the corresponding numbers on the grid.
- Winning square: The square that intersects the two numbers is the winning square.
Example
Let's say the score at the end of the first quarter is 14-7. The last digit of the score is 4 for one team and 7 for the other. Looking at the grid, the square that intersects the numbers 4 and 7 is the winning square.
Football Squares Template Printable
Here is a printable football squares template that you can use for your pool:
You can print out this template and use it to create your own football squares grid. Simply assign each participant a square, and use the score to determine the winner at the end of each quarter.
Football Squares Pool Guide
Running a successful football squares pool requires some planning and organization. Here are some tips to help you get started:
- Determine the entry fee: Decide how much each participant will pay to enter the pool. This can be a flat fee or a percentage of the total pot.
- Set the payout structure: Determine how the winnings will be distributed. Some common payout structures include:
- Winner takes all
- Quarterly payouts (e.g., winner of each quarter receives a portion of the pot)
- Final score payout (e.g., winner of the game receives a portion of the pot)
- Create a grid: Use the printable template provided above or create your own grid. Make sure to assign each participant a unique square.
- Collect entries: Collect entries from participants and ensure that each square is assigned.
- Determine the winner: Use the score to determine the winner at the end of each quarter. Make sure to keep track of the winners and payout structure.
Tips and Variations
Here are some tips and variations to consider when running a football squares pool:
- Use a random number generator: Instead of assigning squares manually, use a random number generator to assign squares to participants.
- Offer bonus squares: Offer bonus squares for specific events, such as a touchdown or field goal.
- Create a theme: Create a theme for your pool, such as a Super Bowl party or a fantasy football league.
- Invite friends and family: Invite friends and family to participate in the pool to make it more exciting.
Conclusion
Football squares are a fun and exciting way to enjoy football games with friends and family. With this guide, you'll be able to create your own football squares pool and enjoy the excitement of the game. Remember to keep it fun and fair, and happy squares-ing!
What is football squares?
+Football squares is a game where participants buy or are assigned a square on a 10x10 grid. The score is used to determine the winner at the end of each quarter.
How do I determine the winner?
+The winner is determined by using the last digit of each team's score to find the corresponding numbers on the grid. The square that intersects the two numbers is the winning square.
What is a payout structure?
+A payout structure determines how the winnings will be distributed. Some common payout structures include winner takes all, quarterly payouts, and final score payout.