Customer Reviews

The Complete Idiot's Guide to Understanding Football Like A Pro

5 star:		(6)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(1)
2 star:		(1)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

I'm hesitant to be seen buying, never mind actually READING, any book that's for "Complete Idiots". But, I bought this book, and I read it, and -- cool, I now understand football.

The book starts with the absolute basics. How big is the field? What's a "down"? How many players are there on a team. That sort of stuff.

The book quickly progresses into more detail. You learn the responsibilities of each position on the offense and defense. You even get some reasonable insight into offensive and defensive strategies. You get the jargon. You really understand the game.

All through this, Theismann keeps the tone light and pretty amusing. He writes very well (though, I've gotta say by way of very minor critisism, that the writing could be better edited).

If you didn't play football in College, and you want to understand the game better, this is definitely the book for you. It was for ME. Even if you're NOT a Complete Idiot.

Even though I've been watching football (on TV and in person) for a couple of decades, I knew there was a lot I didn't understand. Never having played the game above the playground level, I never really learned the roles of different positions, and didn't understand the depth of planning that goes into designing an offense and defense.

Theisman and his co-writer Brian Tracy certainly know both the big picture and the intimate details of football. They've also found a clear writing style and organization with which to make their presentation. From the very basic rules of the game to more complex dissertations on players' roles, play construction and coaching strategies, the authors provide concise, useful information. Theisman's asides about players and game history provide good context and will enhance your appreciation of games that you watch.

Football experts may not glean much from this book, but even those who've played (or play) the game may find it useful to read up on other positions and areas. Those who are new to the game or just passing fans will find this to be very educational.

I found this book funny and entertaining. There are idiot proof diagrams and easy to understand concepts. Joe Theisman teaches you lots of things in this book. I loved it and I'm sure you would love this book too.

Joe Theismann a former Q.B for Notre Dame and Washington Redskins and now a espn commentator knows everything about football. He uses his skills in football and writes about it. He talks about everything from what a touchdown is to five parts of coverage. This book is exellent for idiots all the way to heisman.

am enjoying this book. was received as described and in a timely fashion. this is a perfect book for moms who want to know what their sons are actually doing on the field!

After my wife finished her bachelors degree she announced that she now wanted to study football. Realizing I probably have the best wife in the history of the world, (at least since football was invented), I set out to help her accomplish her goal. She's been pretty into football for a number of years, but wanted to learn all of the terminology (such as Post Route, Slant, etc...), the detailed rules, and general history of the game including important players throughout the history of the game. She and I got on Amazon and bought about a half dozen football books, including this one.

Suffice it to say that of all the books we bought, this one was easily the best. Clearly written, well presented, and with a nice touch of humor, I can't imagine a better introduction to the varied aspects of American Football than this one. Sure there are more detailed books on offensive or defensive strategy, or specifics on history, etc., but for an introduction to some of the finer points of the game, this one is a winner.

I agree with the previous rec - i bought it and enjoy it even though I already know and love the game. it has a lot of historical, anecdotal information about the game.

Mr. Theisman's humor and ego, however, get old quick. The problem with the book is that HE treats you like an "idiot" and he never misses an opportunity to talk about his awesome intelligence and capabilities and Superbowl championship.

This a great book for every one from begginer to heisman. Joe Theismann a former Q.B for Notre Dame and the Washington Redskins and now an e.s.p.n. commentator knows everthing about football. He explains everything from what is a touchdown to five parts of coverage.

Duh, He talks to you like you've had a concussion.

This book seems OK at first, but after reading through the first few pages I discover how immature Thiessman's writing is. Half the time he either talks to you like a three-year-old or like your an NFL Play Coordinator.

It does explain some misconceptions but for the most part is either insultingly stupid or flatulently complicated.

"YARDLINES: These are the long white lines running accross the field with numbers on them.

>>>>Thank you, Sherlock Holmes.

"ENCROACHMENT: This penalty is defined when a member of the offensive line enters the neutral zone."

>>>>What the hell is the neutral zone? There is no previous explanation.

"To execute this play have the quarterback snap the ball watching for a blitz, and looking for an open wide reciever in the red zone, but prepare himself for a rush." >>>>Huh? Can I get this in English?