Do you love the game of football? How about trivia? Well, then you’re in for a real treat!
This article features the best “I should have known that” and brain-stumping NFL trivia questions and answers that are sure to test your knowledge of all things football.
Here are our best NFL trivia questions that may very well have you and your trivia buddies scratching your head and reaching for Google.
Ready? Put on your thinking cap and get ready to have some fun!
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Football Trivia Questions: General Knowledge
How much does an NFL football weigh?
Answer: 1 pound.
What does NFL stand for?
Answer: National Football League.
How many points is a field goal worth in football?
Answer: 3 points.
In American football, how many downs does an offensive team have to advance 10 yards?
Answer: 4 downs.
How many timeouts does each team get in overtime during NFL regular season?
Answer: Each team gets two timeouts.
What is the term for a quarterback being tackled behind the line of scrimmage before throwing the ball?
Answer: Sack.
What term refers to the virtual line that extends from sideline to sideline and passes through the forward point of the ball after it’s made ready for play?
Answer: Line of Scrimmage.
What is the term for when a player touches a loose ball while attempting to gain possession, often occurring during kick or punt returns?
Answer: Muff.
What is the average price of a 30-second commercial during the Super Bowl?
Answer: $5.5 million USD.
____ is a game where fans create their own leagues, usually with friends and family, and then draft players onto their teams.
Answer: Fantasy Football.
Name at least 3 positions of the players who play on special teams.
Answer: Kickers, punters, long-snappers, holders, kick returners, punt returners, gunners, personal protectors.
What stadium in Pasadena, CA, the home of the UCLA Bruins, hosts an annual college football game each year on New Year’s Day?
Answer: Rose Bowl.
Football Trivia Questions And Answers: NFL Knowledge
The teams in the NFL are split into two conferences, what are they?
Answer: The NFC and the AFC.
What Green Bay quarterback retired in 2008, then returned with the New York Jets and the Minnesota Vikings before finally retiring for good in 2011?
Answer: Brett Favre.
Which QB threw a touchdown pass in his 48th straight game in 2012, breaking the record set by Johnny Unitas in 1960?
Answer: Drew Brees.
A 2015 study revealed that nearly 16% of NFL players file for bankruptcy within how many years of retiring–is it 2, 6, 12, or 22?
Answer: 12.
As of 2022, which NFL team has never made it to a Super Bowl–Detroit Lions, Atlanta Falcons, Chicago Bears, or Minnesota Vikings?
Answer: Detroit Lions.
Which NFL team features a pirate flag on the players’ helmets?
Answer: Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
Peyton Manning joined the Broncos for the 2012 season. Before that, how many seasons did he play for the Colts?
Answer: 14.
Which animals star in the half-time show of the annual Puppy Bowl, which airs on Super Bowl Sunday?
Answer: Kittens.
What NFL team was originally called the ‘New York Titans’?
Answer: The New York Jets.
The NFL has its beginnings in a league formed in 1920 called what?
Answer: American Professional Football Association.
Which team, the first to play a perfect season since the 1972 Miami Dolphins, went 16-0 in 2007 before the playoffs?
Answer: New England Patriots (they made it to the Super Bowl, but ultimately lost to the New York Giants).
Which NFL team’s owner, Stan Kroenke, bought 60 acres of land in California in 2014 to build a stadium for the team’s return?
Answer: The Los Angeles Rams (formerly St. Louis Rams).
John Madden was a head coach in the National Football League from 1969 to 1978. What team did he coach during his coaching career?
Answer: He coached his entire NFL career with the Oakland Raiders.
This player was the first-ever openly gay person to be drafted by an NFL team. What was his name?
Answer: Michael Sam.
Who did the New England Patriots lose to in Super Bowl XXXI?
Answer: Green Bay Packers.
American football dates back to the mid-19th century. What team is considered the oldest in the NFL?
Answer: Arizona Cardinals (year of establishment: 1898; year of joining the NFL: 1920).
Which NFL team has a fleur de lis on the players’ helmets?
Answer: New Orleans Saints.
What highly-touted rookie threw for 320 yards in his first-ever NFL game of the 2012 regular season?
Answer: Robert Griffin III.
How many yards is the penalty in the NFL for roughing the kicker?
Answer: 15 yards.
Which player holds the distinction of being the all-time touchdown leader in NFL history?
Answer: Jerry Rice.
How many games are played by each team during the NFL regular season?
Answer: 17 (as of 2022).
In 1972, what NFL team became the first to have a perfect season by winning every game?
Answer: Miami Dolphins.
In 2010, the assistant coach of which NFL team deliberately tripped a Miami Dolphins player from the sidelines, earning a season-long suspension?
Answer: New York Jets (he was also fined $25,000).
Which NFL team cut five-time Pro Bowl cornerback Darrelle Revis in 2014, only one year after he signed a 6-year $96 million deal with them?
Answer: Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
Which NFL team played in Invesco Field at Mile High until Sports Authority bought the naming rights in 2011?
Answer: Denver Broncos.
Which team won the silver Lombardi Trophy by defeating the Seattle Seahawks in 2015?
Answer: New England Patriots.
Wide receiver Jerry Rice was an NFL superstar. What uniform number did he wear for the San Francisco 49ers?
Answer: #80.
The Super Bowl trophy, the Vince Lombardi Trophy, is a sterling silver trophy custom-crafted each year by which company?
Answer: Tiffany & Company.
What pro football team plays at Lambeau Field, a stadium that has sold out of season tickets every year since 1960?
Answer: Green Bay Packers.
Which quarterback broke Brett Favre’s passing touchdown record in 2014 when his career total reached 509?
Answer: Peyton Manning.
Who joined George Halas and Don Shula to become the third coach in NFL history to lead a team to an undefeated regular season?
Answer: Bill Belichick ( in 2007 with the New England Patriots).
Which athlete, who retired in 2005, is the only person to have played in both a World Series and a Super Bowl?
Answer: Deion Sanders (Atlanta Braves in 1992, San Francisco 49ers in 1994, and Dallas Cowboys in 1995).
This QB was known for ‘the catch’, and for winning 4 Super Bowls. He also won a National Championship while playing at Notre Dame. Who is he?
Answer: Joe Montana.
Perhaps one of the greatest quarterbacks to play the game, Joe Montana (#16) played for the San Francisco 49ers. But later in his career, Montana donned #19 for his last two seasons. Which team did Montana sign with in 1993?
Answer: Kansas City Chiefs.
Which “Rocky” actor once played in the NFL?
Answer: Carl Weathers (he played Apollo Creed in the “Rocky” franchise).
Nicknamed, ‘Sweetness’, I ran the ball for the Chicago Bears for 13 seasons. I made the number 34 jersey famous. I was a nine-time Pro Bowler, and was inducted into the Hall in 1993. Who am I?
Answer: Walter Payton.
The heir to Joe Montana’s throne in San Francisco, this quarterback was a proper successor to the heritage of the Niners. He played from 1985-1999, and also played for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Who is this?
Answer: Steve Young.
This RB reigned during the years between 1957-1965 and played for the Cleveland Browns. He is often considered one of the GOATs. Who is he?
Answer: Jim Brown.
Where did Tom Brady play college ball?
Answer: University of Michigan.
What iconic play is known as “The Catch” and sent the San Francisco 49ers to their first Super Bowl?
Answer: Joe Montana and Dwight Clark’s touchdown connection.
Who led the Broncos to their first back-to-back Super Bowl victories in the late 1990s with an 80-yard touchdown pass to Shannon Sharpe?
Answer: John Elway.
In the “Run Mary Run” play, who caught the game-winning Hail Mary pass thrown by Aaron Rodgers in the 2011 NFC Divisional Game?
Answer: Richard Rodgers.
What rule, highly debated in NFL history, was applied in the 2001 AFC Divisional Game between the Patriots and Raiders?
Answer: The “Tuck Rule.”
Which quarterback orchestrated “The Helmet Catch” play that helped the Giants win and reach the Super Bowl?
Answer: Eli Manning.
In “The Catch II,” who made a spectacular catch while falling out of bounds to secure the 49ers’ trip to the NFC Championship?
Answer: Vernon Davis.
Who led “The Gold Rush” on a 92-yard touchdown drive with 58 seconds left in a historic NFC Championship game?
Answer: Joe Montana.
What is the term for a touchdown made by a defensive player intercepting a pass and running it into the opposing end zone?
Answer: Pick-six
The Patriots’ home field is located in which city?
Answer: Foxborough
Which team’s logo features a horseshoe?
Answer: Indianapolis Colts
This team’s logo features a roaring feline, resembling its nickname.
Answer: Detroit Lions
In what year did Tom Brady and the Patriots complete a perfect regular season?
Answer: 2007
Which team is famous for its “12th Man” fan tradition?
Answer: Seattle Seahawks
The Steelers’ logo features which iconic element?
Answer: Steelmark logo (three hypocycloids)
The Dolphins are based in which U.S. state?
Answer: Florida
Who was the first African-American head coach in the NFL?
Answer: Fritz Pollard, who coached the Akron Pros in 1921.
What is the name of the NFL team located in Baltimore?
Answer: The Baltimore Ravens.
What is the name of the NFL team located in Denver?
Answer: The Denver Broncos.
What is the name of the NFL team located in Kansas City?
Answer: The Kansas City Chiefs.
What is the name of the NFL team located in Jacksonville?
Answer: The Jacksonville Jaguars.
What is the name of the NFL team located in New Orleans?
Answer: The New Orleans Saints.
What is the name of the NFL team located in Minnesota?
Answer: The Minnesota Vikings.
NFL Football Trivia Questions: Guess The Player
This running back, recognized for his determination and powerful running style, played his entire career with the Chicago Bears. He was active in the NFL from 1975 to 1987 and wore jersey number 34. Who is he?
Answer: Walter Payton
An accomplished quarterback, this player is renowned for his cool demeanor under pressure and numerous Super Bowl victories. He started playing in the NFL in 1979 and spent much of his career with the San Francisco 49ers. He wore jersey number 16. Who is this legendary quarterback?
Answer: Joe Montana
This dominant defensive end, known for his disruptive play and imposing presence on the field, had a remarkable career with the Philadelphia Eagles, Green Bay Packers, and other teams. He was active in the NFL from 1985 to 2000 and wore jersey number 92. Who is he?
Answer: Reggie White
A running back with unmatched agility and a knack for finding the end zone, this player had an illustrious career with the Dallas Cowboys and Arizona Cardinals. He was active in the NFL from 1990 to 2004 and wore jersey number 22. Who is this iconic rusher?
Answer: Emmitt Smith
A quarterback with exceptional skills and a strong arm, this player had a record-setting career with the Miami Dolphins. He was active in the NFL from 1983 to 1999 and wore jersey number 13. Who is this legendary quarterback?
Answer: Dan Marino
A linebacker with incredible athleticism and leadership qualities, this player had an outstanding career with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. He was active in the NFL from 1995 to 2014 and wore jersey number 55. Who is this legendary defender?
Answer: Derrick Brooks
This linebacker, known for his disruptive play, played his entire career for the Pittsburgh Steelers, wearing jersey number 75. He was a cornerstone of the “Steel Curtain” defense and helped lead the team to multiple Super Bowl victories. Who is he?
Answer: Joe Greene
A versatile defensive player, this cornerback and safety had an electrifying career with multiple teams, including the Atlanta Falcons and Dallas Cowboys. He was known for his flashy style on and off the field and wore jersey number 21. Who is this dynamic player?
Answer: Deion Sanders
This wide receiver was a dominant force with a career marked by his explosive speed and incredible catches. He played for multiple teams, including the Minnesota Vikings and New England Patriots, and wore jersey number 84. Who is this game-changing receiver?
Answer: Randy Moss
A highly skilled linebacker, this player had an impactful career with the Baltimore Ravens, known for his intensity and leadership on the field. He wore jersey number 52 and was a key figure in the Ravens’ Super Bowl victory. Who is this legendary defender?
Answer: Ray Lewis
This running back, known for his remarkable agility and playmaking ability, spent his entire NFL career with the Detroit Lions, wearing jersey number 20. He left a lasting legacy as one of the greatest rushers in NFL history. Who is he?
Answer: Barry Sanders
This quarterback, known for his strong arm and fearless playing style, had a storied career with the Green Bay Packers and other teams. He wore jersey number 4 and his iconic moments include his Super Bowl victory and memorable throws. Who is this legendary quarterback?
Answer: Brett Favre
Known for his clutch performances, this wide receiver played a crucial role for the New England Patriots during their successful years. He attended Texas Tech University and won two Super Bowl rings with the Patriots. Who is he?
Answer: Danny Amendola
Despite consistently being one of the best linebackers in the league, this player often went overlooked due to his team’s struggles. He played for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and attended the University of Nebraska. Who is this underrated linebacker?
Answer: Lavonte David
A formidable defensive lineman for the Green Bay Packers, this player consistently disrupted opposing offenses. He attended the University of Iowa and made a significant impact on the Packers’ defensive line. Who is this underrated defender?
Answer: Mike Daniels
NFL Football Trivia Questions: Multiple Choice Round
In which U.S. state is the NFL Hall of Fame located?
A) Ohio
B) California
C) Texas
D) Florida
Answer: a) Ohio
Who is considered the “father of American football”?
A) Alexander Cartwright
B) Vince Lombardi
C) William Webb Ellis
D) Walter Camp
Answer: d) Walter Camp
Who holds the record for the most sacks in a single season?
- a) Al Baker
- b) Michael Strahan
- c) T.J. Watt
- d) Nick Bosa
Answer: T.J. Watt (2021) and Michael Strahan (2001) are tied for the most sacks in a season, with 22.5 sacks.
What is the largest NFL stadium?
a) Soldier Field
b) MetLife Stadium
c) AT&T Stadium
d) Lambeau Field
Answer: b) MetLife Stadium – located in East Rutherford, New Jersey. It has a capacity of 82,500.
Which NFL stadium has a pirate ship in the end zone?
a) Levi’s Stadium
b) Gillette Stadium
c) Raymond James Stadium
d) Arrowhead Stadium
Answer: c) Raymond James Stadium – in Tampa, FL.
When did the ABC network first broadcast a game of Monday Night Football and which teams played in that game?
a) 1965, Green Bay Packers vs. Dallas Cowboys
b) 1970, New York Jets vs. Cleveland Browns
c) 1985, San Francisco 49ers vs. Miami Dolphins
d) 1990, Chicago Bears vs. New York Giants
Answer: b) 1970, New York Jets vs. Cleveland Browns
Who were the original broadcasting trio for Monday Night Football?
a) John Madden, Al Michaels, Dan Dierdorf
b) Pat Summerall, Frank Gifford, Dick Enberg
c) Howard Cosell, Don Meredith, Keith Jackson
d) Tony Romo, Jim Nantz, Troy Aikman
Answer: c) Howard Cosell, Don Meredith, Keith Jackson
Which famous play in NFL history is known as “The Catch” and who were the players involved?
a) Jerry Rice and Steve Young
b) Troy Aikman and Michael Irvin
c) Joe Montana and Dwight Clark
d) Brett Favre and Sterling Sharpe
Answer: c) Joe Montana and Dwight Clark
In which year did the Pittsburgh Steelers draft a quartet of players in one draft class who all eventually made it to the Pro Football Hall of Fame?
a) 1969
b) 1974
c) 1981
d) 1995
Answer: b) 1974
What event took place on January 15, 1967, and pitted the Green Bay Packers against the Kansas City Chiefs?
a) College Football National Championship
b) Super Bowl I
c) NFL Playoffs
d) AFC-NFC World Championship Game
Answer: b) Super Bowl I
Who was the quarterback who famously guaranteed a win for the New York Jets in Super Bowl III?
a) Johnny Unitas
b) Terry Bradshaw
c) Joe Namath
d) Dan Marino
Answer: c) Joe Namath
In what year did the NFL and NFLPA reach a new 10-year deal, ending their labor dispute?
a) 1998
b) 2001
c) 2011
d) 2015
Answer: c) 2011
Which team did the New England Patriots face in Super Bowl XLII, aiming for a perfect season?
a) New York Giants
b) Dallas Cowboys
c) Pittsburgh Steelers
d) San Francisco 49ers
Answer: a) New York Giants
Best Trivia Games of 2024
Can’t get enough of the trivia goodness? Neither can we. If you’re looking for trivia games to play with friends/family, here are our favorite trivia board games on the market this year!
GENSMAK! Fun for All Generations – Trivia Game
Choose to answer questions from categories like Gen Z, Millenial, Gen X, Boomer, and more!
Dynamic gameplay with questions that vary by generation, category, and difficulty level.
2 to 12 players | Includes 500 trivia questions
Ultimate Pub Trivia
1,100 questions covering 6 different categories
Host your own pub-style trivia nights
4 or more players | Ages 12 and up
Anomia Party Edition
A very popular card game for families, teens and adults!
Fast-paced friendly competition and laugh-til-you cry kind of fun
3-6 players | Ages 10+
…I should have known that! Trivia Game
110 cards with 400+ questions
Instead of points for answering questions right, points are subtracted for every wrong answer
Players 2+ | Ages 14+
And that about wraps up our list of NFL trivia questions and answers!
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