What is the yardage penalty for a delay of game in football?

A delay of game in football results in a penalty of 5 yards. This penalty occurs when the offensive team fails to initiate the play before the play clock expires. The rule is designed to maintain the pace of the game and ensure that teams do not take excessive time between plays. The enforcement of a 5-yard penalty is intended to be a manageable consequence that encourages teams to be more mindful of the play clock without introducing overly severe penalties that could dramatically change the course of the game. Understanding this aspect of game management is crucial for players and coaches in order to avoid unnecessary penalties that can hinder their team’s performance.