When you think of rugby and American football, you might think of how similar they are. Like how they both share the strong physical nature of tackling their opponents, or even how they both have the same goal of advancing a ball to the opponent’s end zone for that monumental win. However, there are significant differences when it comes to these two sports.
Rugby was invented in 1828 in England, and football in 1869 in New Jersey. Football has adopted the use of shoulder pads and helmets over time, while rugby has not. These are some examples of how different the sports are, but one of the most notable differences between the two sports is the ball they use.
The balls used in rugby and American football do have some similarities when looking at their appearance. Rules from both sports require both of them to weigh around 15 ounces, and they have the same standard length of 11 inches. They have a similar shape at first glance, but if you look closer, you might realize that the balls aren’t as similar as they appear and that there are a lot of things that set them apart.
Rugby Ball
Material: The modern-day rugby ball uses a synthetic waterproof material instead of leather. A change that was made around 1980 to prevent waterlogging in wet conditions.
Structure: The ball has four panels with rounded ends and edges. Some rugby balls have more pointed ends, and some have more rounded ends. Both effect the performance of the ball when it comes to passing and kicking.
Grip: A “pimpled” textured outer layer provides players with a more optimal grip to the ball. The depth, spacing, and size of these “pimples” can significantly affect the ball’s performance.
Football
Material: The official football is made out of artificial leather and sometimes even cowhide. In the earlier stages of football, the balls were actually made out of an inflated pig bladder.
Structure: A football is also made of four panels; the panels cover and protect a bladder inside the foot-ball. A football has a more spherical shape, making it easier for players to hold the ball under their arms.
Grip: Grip: The football’s “pebbly” texture is vital to allow for a more effective catch and a better grip. The football also has eight white laces on top of the ball. These laces allow for a faster and more accurate throw.
Sources: There’s a Reason Footballs Are Shaped Like That by: Time
American Football Dimension and Drawing by: Dimensions.com
The Ultimate Guide to Rugby Balls: History, Evolution, and Impact on the sport by:
Live4well
The differences between rugby and American football by: Amos
The Chemistry of a Football by: Chemistryoflife
