Which rules book applies, and who makes binding interpretations?
Rule- USA
- NFHS
- High school
- Grades 9-12 (ages 14-18)
- Varsity
- 11-player football
- NFHS rules
- 2026 rules
- Officials
High school games in states that adopt NFHS rules are played under the 2026 NFHS Football Rules Book.
- Each state high school association that adopts NFHS rules is the sole and exclusive source of binding rules interpretations for games involving its member schools. Rules questions go to the state's designated football rules interpreter.
- The NFHS is the sole source of model interpretations, which state interpreters may request.
The rules book also covers the rules differences for 6-, 8- and 9-player football.
Updated 21 Oct 2026