How to Play Fantasy Football

So, eager to jump in on one of the most popular hobbies in the world right now? Chances are, you probably know at least one or two fantasy football fanatics (F.F.F.'s). While you don't have to be totally obsessed with it like some gurus are, fantasy football can be a lot of fun for almost anyone.

For those who have never played before, this is how it works. Before the actual NFL season kicks off, you join a league or form one with a bunch of friends. Long ago, people used to play fantasy football on paper, but now the vast majority of players join online leagues. Many sports sites have fantasy football leagues; just type "fantasy football leagues" into your favorite search engine and you'll see plenty of options.

Once you join a league, the real fun begins. This is the part where you get to pick the players for your team. Most leagues are set up with a draft, so everyone takes turns picking their players and everyone has a chance to land some of the top talents. Other leagues are designed so that you can buy, sell, or trade players throughout the season, as long as you stay under the salary cap.

After your team is complete, all you have to do is wait for the season to begin. Once it does, every week your players score points for your team based on their performances for their real teams. Usually, touchdowns count for the most points, so running backs and quarterbacks are often the most valuable players on your team. However, don't make the mistake of forgetting about the receivers, tight ends, and defense - any good fantasy team will be well balanced.

In most leagues, your team will be matched head to head with another team every week, just like the real games. And like the real games, the team that scores the most fantasy points win. Some leagues, though, use a running point total throughout the season to determine your place in the league. Your rank will depend on your points totals compared to the point totals of all the other players in your league.

Most leagues cost nothing to join and are just for fun, but if you feel you have what it takes to go pro, there are also paying leagues that you can join for a fee. Basically, you are gambling on your team, and if it does well enough, you could win some of the money pool.

Like anything else, you get what you put into fantasy football. If you follow it closely and are involved with a bunch of friends, it can be pretty intense, but it also makes a fun casual hobby on the side.