[4] The game was played by teams of 11 players, aligned typically with 7 "rushers" or "forwards" at the line of scrimmage, and four "backs" behind them.

[5] Duration of the game was 70 minutes, divided into two 35-minute halves, which could be shortened by mutual consent,[6] with play regulated by three officials.

[9] A pair of light sticks with a 5-yard length of stout cord or chain were used to measure the line-of-gain for a new first down.

[7] As with the modern game, teams typically did not turn over the ball on downs, since "if the prospects of completing the five-yard gain appear small, it is so manifestly politic to kick the ball as far as possible down the field..."[10] A dropkick or place-held field goal over the 10-foot crossbar and through the goalposts mounted at the goal line counted 5 points, as did a touchdown.

[12] Players played both offense and defense without substitution; those being replaced due to exhaustion or injury were forbidden from returning for the duration to the game.