What is the approved PSI range of a football?

The approved PSI range of a football, as defined by the NFHS, is 12 1/2 to 13 1/2 PSI. This range ensures the football maintains the appropriate firmness and bounce characteristics that are critical during a game. Maintaining the correct PSI also influences the handling and performance of the ball, which affects how players can throw, catch, and kick it. The standards are established to create a level playing field, minimizing any advantages that might arise from using improperly inflated balls.

The other options fall outside this established range, either being too low or too high, which could impair the ball's performance and violate the rules laid out by the NFHS.