What Is Bowling with a Football Called?

Fowling: The Game that Combines Football and Bowling

Fowling combines football and bowling. Teams throw a football to knock down all 10 of the other team’s bowling pins.

Rules of Fowling

Two teams face each other across a 48-foot fowling lane. Take turns throwing a football to knock down the other team’s 10 bowling pins. First team to knock down all pins wins.

  • Pin Spacing: Neighboring bowling pins are 12 inches apart, leaving 7.234 inches between pins for the football to pass through.

  • Bonk: If you knock down only the middle pin on the first throw, it’s called a "Bonk." Honk the giant horn at the Fowling Warehouse bar in Hamtramck, Michigan.

The Origin and Growth of Fowling

The game started when creator Chris Hutt was tailgating at the 2001 Indy 500. Today, fowling warehouses operate in 5 states and the game continues to grow nationwide.

Playing Fowling

  • Teams face off across a 48-foot lane. Take turns throwing a football to knock down 10 bowling pins. First team that knocks down all pins wins.

  • Teams stand on opposite sides with 10 pins. Alternate throws at opponent’s pins until one side knocks down all 10. Then reset pins and play again.

  • Players under 18 must have an adult. It’s a fun game for all ages. It’s likely the greatest yard game ever created.

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