How many players are required on each team to start a game?

In high school football, as per NFHS rules, each team must have 11 players on the field to start a game. This number is critical because football is played with 11 players on each side, which ensures that the game maintains its intended structure and competitive balance. Having 11 players allows for the full range of offensive and defensive strategies to be implemented, as well as enabling all positions to be filled appropriately, including linemen, backs, and receivers. Teams unable to field the required number of players would not be able to legally participate in the game, potentially leading to penalties or forfeits, thereby underscoring the necessity of having 11 players to begin play.