How Many Footballs Are Used in an NFL Game?

By Sarah Miller · May 25, 2030

In a typical NFL football game, approximately 36 official footballs are used, with 24 designated for outdoor games and 12 for indoor games, according to league regulations and team preparation protocols.

Understanding Football Usage in NFL Games

The number of footballs used during an NFL game may seem excessive at first glance, but each ball serves a specific purpose. From gameplay to backups and special situations, the NFL has strict guidelines on ball handling and usage to ensure fairness and consistency.

Why So Many Footballs?

Multiple balls allow for quick substitutions during play.
Different balls are used by offense, defense, and special teams.
Weather conditions can degrade ball quality rapidly.
Balls must meet strict PSI and condition standards during the game.
Backup balls are required in case of damage or loss.

NFL Football Regulations and Ball Preparation

The NFL mandates that each team bring 12 approved footballs to each game. These balls are inspected two hours and fifteen minutes before kickoff by officials to ensure they meet the league's specifications: inflated between 12.5 and 13.5 psi and weighing between 14 and 15 ounces.

Home vs. Away Team Responsibilities

The home team is responsible for providing the game balls used in the first half, while the visiting team provides those for the second half—assuming no overtime. However, both teams must supply balls meeting NFL standards.

Game Type	Team-Provided Balls (Each)	League-Provided Balls	Total Balls Used
Outdoor Game	12	12	36
Indoor Game	6	0	12
Overtime Game	+2 per team	+4	+8 (additional)

Table data source:1, 2

The data shows that outdoor games require significantly more footballs due to environmental factors like rain, cold, and field abrasion. Indoor stadiums reduce wear, allowing fewer balls to be used. The NFL also keeps additional league-supplied balls on hand for unpredictable scenarios.

Ball Management During Gameplay

During live action, only one ball is in play at a time. However, ball boys keep multiple ready balls warmed (in cold weather) and pressurized on the sideline. Officials inspect replacements before introducing them into the game.

Key Moments Requiring Ball Changes

After a touchdown or field goal
If a ball becomes wet, scuffed, or loses pressure
When possession changes after a turnover
At the start of each quarter and overtime
Upon referee discretion for fairness

Frequently Asked Questions About NFL Football Usage

How many footballs does each NFL team bring to a game?

Each team brings 12 regulation footballs for outdoor games and 6 for indoor games, as per NFL rules. These balls are used primarily in the first half (home team) and second half (visiting team), with additional league-supplied balls available.

Who inspects the footballs before an NFL game?

NFL officials inspect all footballs two hours and fifteen minutes before kickoff. They verify the balls are within the required pressure range (12.5–13.5 psi) and meet weight and condition standards.

Are footballs reused after an NFL game?

Some footballs are reused in practice or for promotional events, but most are retired after high-profile games. Playoff and Super Bowl balls are often preserved for historical or auction purposes.

What happens if a football fails inspection during a game?

If a ball fails inspection during play, it is immediately removed and replaced with a compliant one. Teams do not face penalties unless tampering is proven, as seen in controversies like Deflategate.

How does weather affect the number of footballs used?

Wet or cold conditions increase ball wear and grip issues, requiring more frequent substitutions. Outdoor games use nearly three times as many balls as indoor games due to these factors.