STL All Sports

1880-Number of players on a side reduced from 15 to 11 and names of the positions originated. Rugby "scrum" abandoned in favor of a crude scrimmage line, out of which has developed the modern scrimmage line. Position of the quarterback in the scrimmage created, placing him to receive snapback of the ball. He is forbidden to carry the ball. Playing field standardized at 110 x 53 yards, replacing original 140 x 70 yards.

1881-In case of a tie, 2 additional periods of 15 minutes each were ordered to be played.

1882-Introduction of the rule on "downs" and "yards" to gain, as follows: "If, on 3 consecutive downs, a team has not advanced ball 5 yards, or lost 10 yards, it must give up ball to other side at the spot where the final down is made." Signals originated this year. In beginning they consisted of sentences, later of letters beginning sentence. They became numbers in 1885. Teams standardized as follows: 7 forwards, 1 quarterback, 2 halfbacks, 1 fullback. Four touchdowns were given precedence over goal from the field; 2 safeties were made equal to touchdown.

1883-Reorganization of officials provided for 2 judges, 1 to be selected by each team, and 1 impartial referee, the latter's decree to be final.

1883-Numerical scoring introduced with these values: safeties, 1 point; touchdowns, 2 points; goal from touchdown, 4 points; goal from field, 5 points. Referee ordered to take out time for all unnecessary delays. Numerical scoring amended at end of 1884 season to make touchdown 4 points; safety, 2 points; goal after touchdown, 2 points. Origin of interference, then called "guarding."

1885-Harvard faculty prohibited football for the season.

1887-Pennsylvania and Rutgers met in an indoor football game, Madison Square Garden, New York, the first contest under such conditions.

1888-Rule prohibited blocking with extended arms; tackling extended to point below waist but not below knees.

1889-Walter Camp made first All-America selections.