The history of American football goes back to the mid -19th century of rugby football. Rugby is a game where the ball is kicked at a goal and/or run over a line.

        Because of rugby, American football had to move or extend in different directions from a common point. Some of the most notable rule changes were instituted by Walter Camp, commonly know as the "Father Of American Football." Among these important changes were the introduction of the line of scrimmage and of down-and-distance rules. These would eventually help the game evolve into a world-wide sport.