The Physics of Football: Discover the Science of Bone-Crunching Hits, Soaring Field Goals, and Awe-Inspiring Passes – The Fundamental Laws Behind America's Most Exciting Game

by Timothy Gay

Do you cringe when a linebacker flattens a quarterback? Hold your breath when a field goal sails toward the goalpost? Watch in amazement as a touchdown pass spirals down the field? Behind those big hits, long kicks, and sensational throws is a science that will give you a whole new perspective on the game of football. A combination of Stephen Hawking and Mike Ditka, physicist and football fan Timothy Gay breaks down the fundamental laws of physics that govern America's most exciting spectator sport. To illustrate the science behind the game, he highlights some of football's recent memorable moments, along with legendary feats from the likes of Franco Harris and Joe Montana. Did you Know?

Genres: Sports, Science, Nonfiction, Football

304 pages, Paperback

First published August 1, 2005

Reviews

[Benjamin M · Rating 4 out of 5]

Informative, educational, and exciting ... even for a meathead like me!

[Dave Maddock · Rating 3 out of 5]

Being a huge science nerd and compulsive reader, I bought this book as part of my project to develop an appreciation of sport, beginning with the 2012 NFL season. Therefore, I came to this book already knowing most of the science, but hoping that it would help me apply my appreciation of that subject to the other. Since I consider myself a football fan now (two weeks before Super Bowl XLVII), I suppose I should grant it at least partially successful in that regard. However, while a generally enjoyable read, I don't think it was a big factor in winning me over.

[Walkingthecircle · Rating 3 out of 5]

I am a student of physics and I understand the author wanting to write for the wider audience who may not be familiar with physics, but he oversimplified many concepts for my taste. He did explain nicely some of the strange motions a football goes through and I did like the book, but overall I would say it is just mildly entertaining and I enjoy both football and physics.

[Austen]

this book really shows a young athlete what to do to hit and block and everything. also it educates you on how to become a very good athlete.

[Maria · Rating 4 out of 5]

has interesting facts... alittle boring for my taste; you have to be really into all aspects of football!

[P. Marcelo Metzelar · Rating 5 out of 5]

True to the title. An awesome way to introduce physics to jocks!

[Scott Palochik]

Very interesting read. Admittedly I am not strong in the areas of math and science however the author was able to explain things in a way that even I was able to understand.