The first football fields were just that--fields. Games were played in large open spaces near Eastern college campuses. The dimensions were determined more by buildings, barns, and roads than by a rule book. As the game grew in popularity, the need for a standard-sized field was recognized. By 1912, a 100 - yard field with 10 - yard end zones was standard. Field markings, including yard line numbers, hash marks, and yardage stripes, have changed over time as the game and technology have evolved. A football field is also known as a gridiron; early football fields were drawn with a cross - hatch grid of lines to help officials. Today's high - tech NFL fields are made of more than meets the eye. Several layers of materials are built up to support, drain, and preserve the field. The grass at many stadiums is changed yearly. Kickers aim field - goal and extra - point attempts at the 18-foot 6-inch span between the two 30 foot high goal posts. The crossbar is 10 feet off the ground. In 1974, the goal posts were moved from the front to the back of the end zoned. Bright orange yard markers are placed every 10 yards along both sidelines to help the players and fans. The foot-high markers are made of foam rubber for the player's safety. The large "G" indicates the goal line. rubber for the player's safety.
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