If you’re a fan of football, the chances are that you’re familiar with Super Bowl squares. The fun pool game has been around for a long time and it’s a great way to add an extra level of excitement to any occasion.
Below, we outline everything you need to know about playing Super Bowl squares. Not only do we cover the basics like how to set up the grid, but we also explain the rules and share some useful tips.
What Are Super Bowl Squares?
Super Bowl squares, also referred to as a Super Bowl pool or Super Bowl boxes, involve a group betting system using a basic X-Y grid. Participants can enter their names, usually initials, into as many squares as they want to purchase.
Each square signifies a potential score. At the conclusion of every quarter, the individual owning the square matching the score at that time claims a portion of the prize pool. Winners of each quarter typically receive a quarter of the total pool money.
For example, if the score is 31-17, the winner would be the person holding the square matching the digits 1-7.
How to Play Super Bowl Squares
The first thing you need to do is construct a grid measuring 10 boxes in height and 10 boxes in width, which will give you 100 boxes. This capacity accommodates up to 100 participants, but the number of players is typically much smaller.
Label the top of the grid with the name of one Super Bowl team and vertically along the left side, denote the other team’s name. This will make life easier when it comes to keeping track of the score.
It is important to remember that you need to leave room to write the numbers 0-9 along both sides. Although you are working with a 10×10 grid, the numbers must range from 0 to 9.
Each player then writes their name/initials in their chosen Super Bowl squares. At the end of each quarter, the winning square secures a portion of the total prize pool.
Are Squares Unique to the Super Bowl?
One of the best things about Super Bowl squares is that you can create a pool for any football game. That means you don’t have to wait an entire year to play squares on a specific day.
Whether you’re an avid NFL fan, a devoted college football lover or a loyal supporter of your local team, you can enjoy NFL squares contests throughout the year. All you need is a piece of paper, a pen and some football-loving friends.
Of course, you don’t always have to play for money. If you enjoy watching football and want to keep things fun between you and your friends, you can play simply for the enjoyment.
Read our NFL Super Bowl betting guide next.