How to Keep Score in Cornhole: A Comprehensive Guide
Cornhole, also known as bags, is a popular outdoor game that has gained a significant following worldwide. It’s a fun and engaging game that can be played by people of all ages and skill levels. Keeping score in cornhole is essential for determining the winner, and it’s not as complicated as you might think. In this article, we’ll provide you with a comprehensive guide on how to keep score in cornhole.
Understanding the Objective
Before diving into the scoring system, it’s important to understand the objective of the game. The goal is to throw bean bags into a wooden bucket, known as the hog, which is positioned at the end of a board. Each team consists of two players, and the team that scores the most points by the end of the game wins.
The Scoring System
The scoring in cornhole is straightforward. Here’s how it works:
1. First Throw: Each player takes turns throwing two bean bags. The player who throws the bag closest to the hog scores a point.
2. Second Throw: If a player throws a bag that lands inside the hog, they score two points. This is known as a “ringer.”
3. Third Throw: If a player throws a bag that lands on the board but outside the hog, they score three points. This is known as a “stand-up.”
4. Fourth Throw: If a player throws a bag that lands on the ground, they score four points. This is known as a “lay-down.”
End of the Game
The game continues until one team reaches a predetermined score, typically 21 points. However, some variations of the game may use different point totals, such as 25 or 30 points. Once a team reaches the required score, the game is over, and that team is declared the winner.
Additional Scoring Rules
While the basic scoring system is straightforward, there are a few additional rules that can be implemented to add excitement and strategy to the game:
1. End Zone: Some players use an end zone, which is a designated area behind the hog. If a player throws a bag into the end zone, they score an extra point.
2. Ringer Bonus: In some variations, if a player throws a ringer on their first throw, they receive an additional point.
3. Re-throw: If a player throws a bag that lands on the ground or outside the hog, they can choose to re-throw the bag. If they improve their score, they receive the additional points.
Conclusion
Keeping score in cornhole is easy once you understand the basic rules. By following the scoring system and incorporating additional rules, you can ensure a fair and enjoyable game for all players. So, gather your friends, learn how to keep score, and have a great time playing cornhole!
