Why Is the CFL Field Bigger Than the NFL?

While the CFL and NFL both play football professionally, did you know that the CFL has a bigger field than the NFL?

There have been times when the larger field has impacted CFL odds, as it allows the passing game to be even more prominent. 

Today, all football betting, including the CFL and NFL, is available at the BetMGM online sportsbook. 

Below, I’ll examine why the CFL field is bigger and why there are only three downs and more. 

Why Is the CFL Field Bigger Than the NFL?

To explain why the CFL field is larger than the NFL’s, we must go back to the 19th century. 

While both leagues today play professional football, the sports have evolved differently. For the CFL, it was more of a rugby-based game, which included a bigger field. 

Then, as rules took shape for the CFL, the league retained the larger field to achieve a faster-paced game.

Why Are CFL Fields So Big?

The CFL field is 110 yards long and 65 yards wide, and the end zones are 20 yards deep. Conversely, an NFL field is 100 yards long and 53.3 yards wide, with 10-yard end zones. 

A bigger field makes sense for the CFL game, allowing players to be in motion before the snap. There are only three downs compared to the NFL’s four. 

The larger field, as mentioned, also helps the CFL become more of a pass-first type of game. 

Why Is the CFL Only 3 Downs?

In 1903, the CFL adopted the Burnside Rules, which included reducing the number of downs from four to three. Nearly 10 years later, in 1912, American football reverted to four downs. 

With three downs, this promotes a more passing-oriented offence, as teams need to gain 10 yards on three downs instead of four. 

Additionally, having a larger field makes these conversions more feasible, as players have more room to catch passes and can be in motion before the snap. 

Overall, the gameplay philosophy held by the CFL differentiates it from the NFL. 

How Many Players Are on the Field at One Time in Canadian Football?

In the CFL, there are 12 players on each side of the field, totalling 24. In the NFL, there are 22 players, with 11 on each side. 

Here’s what the position groups typically include: 

• 1 quarterback
• 5 offensive linemen
• 2 running backs/fullbacks
• 4 receivers 
• 4 defensive linemen
• 3 linebackers
• 5 defensive backs

In the CFL, some receivers are known as slotbacks. These players line up 1-2 yards behind the line of scrimmage between the offensive line and other receivers and are often in motion.

How Does a Larger CFL Field Impact the Game Versus the NFL?

Offence

On offence, this allows for some creativity, especially in the passing game. As mentioned, there’s the slotback, which can be in motion before the play begins. Also, with just three downs, you’ll find a lot of passing on each down.

With this, CFL teams typically look for players who can move around in and out of the pocket and make quick reads to find open receivers. 

Defence

Playing defence in the CFL isn’t easy. You’re constantly dealing with the passing game and players getting running starts before the play begins. 

Thus, CFL teams will try to find fast players who can keep up with the offence. As for pass rushers, speed remains a key emphasis, as CFL quarterbacks strive to get the ball out as quickly as possible. 

It’s not common to see man-to-man coverage in the CFL; there’s a lot more zone to help cushion the blow of an opposing explosive offence. 

Special Teams

Special teams in the CFL are unique. 

With a bigger field, there’s more opportunity for punt and kick returns. It also helps that there’s no fair catch rule. Instead, the opposing special teams unit must give the returner a 5-yard “halo,” which allows them to catch the ball without being tackled or hindered. 

Also, while players can return field goals that remain in bounds, field goal kickers can earn three points for a successful kick or one point if a field goal is missed but isn’t returned and remains in the end zone. 

This is known as a rouge and applies to punt and kickoff returns.