ACL Cornhole Scoring: How to Keep Track Like a Pro

ACL Cornhole Scoring: How to Keep Track Like a Pro

Cornhole may seem like a simple game, but once you dive into the world of competitive play, you'll quickly realize there’s more to it—especially when it comes to scoring. The American Cornhole League (ACL) follows a unique scoring system called cancellation scoring, which adds a layer of strategy to the game. If you're serious about improving your game or participating in official ACL tournaments, understanding how to keep score is critical.

In this blog, we’ll break down the official ACL scoring system, how it works, and tips to help you track scores like a pro.

The Objective of ACL Cornhole Scoring

In ACL Cornhole, the goal is to be the first player or team to score exactly 21 points. While this sounds simple, the scoring process itself requires careful tracking because points are not just added up after every round—they are canceled out. This cancellation method ensures that the game is competitive and encourages both offensive and defensive strategies.

Let’s explore how the scoring system works.

How to Score in ACL Cornhole

Points are earned based on where your bags land at the end of each round:

• 3 points for a bag that goes through the hole (called a "Cornhole").
• 1 point for a bag that lands on the board but does not fall through the hole (referred to as "Woody" or "Boarder").
• 0 points for any bag that lands off the board or touches the ground at any point during its throw (called a "Dirty Bag").

At the end of each round, each player’s or team’s total score is compared, and the lower score is canceled out by the higher score. The remaining difference in points is added to the overall score.

Understanding Cancellation Scoring

Let’s break it down with an example:

1. Player A tosses their four bags:

   • One bag lands in the hole (3 points).
   • Two bags land on the board (2 points total).
   • One bag lands off the board (0 points).

   Player A’s total for the round is 5 points (3 + 2).

2. Player B tosses their four bags:

   • One bag lands in the hole (3 points).
   • One bag lands on the board (1 point).
   • Two bags land off the board (0 points).

   Player B’s total for the round is 4 points (3 + 1).

Now, Player A’s 5 points cancel out Player B’s 4 points, leaving a difference of 1 point. This 1 point is added to Player A’s overall game score.

When No Points are Scored

Sometimes, the points from both players completely cancel each other out. For example, if both players score exactly 5 points in the same round, the result is 0 net points, and no one adds to their overall score. This is a common occurrence in closely matched games and can keep the game tight for several rounds.

Winning the Game

The game continues until one player or team reaches exactly 21 points at the end of a round. However, you cannot win the game in the middle of a round. For example, if a player reaches 21 points after their first two bags but their opponent hasn’t thrown yet, the round must be completed before the game officially ends.

Also, if a player exceeds 21 points during a round, they do not automatically lose. The player simply remains over 21 points, and the game continues until the next round ends with someone reaching exactly 21 points.

Skunk Rule

In some variations, there's an optional "Skunk Rule" where a player or team wins instantly if they lead by 13 points after any round. This rule is often used in casual play to speed up games but is not always applied in official ACL tournaments.

Common Scoring Scenarios in ACL Cornhole

Scenario 1: A Perfect Round

Player A throws all four bags into the hole, earning 12 points (3 points per bag). Player B lands two bags on the board for 2 points. The difference is 10 points, so Player A adds 10 points to their overall score for that round.

Scenario 2: A Close Match

Player A scores 4 points (one bag in the hole and one on the board). Player B also scores 4 points (two bags on the board). In this case, the scores cancel each other out, and no points are added to either player’s overall score. The game continues without either player gaining an advantage.

Scenario 3: Canceling High Scores

Player A lands two bags in the hole (6 points) and one on the board (1 point), while Player B lands three bags in the hole (9 points). Player B wins the round by 2 points after canceling out Player A's score (9 - 7 = 2), and those 2 points are added to Player B’s overall score.

Tips for Keeping Score Like a Pro

Now that you know the basics of cancellation scoring, let’s look at some tips to keep track of scores effectively:

1. Use a Scoreboard: It’s easy to lose track of points in the heat of the game, especially during long matches. Using a simple cornhole scoreboard will help you stay organized and ensure both teams agree on the score.

2. Track Round-by-Round: After each round, take a moment to compare the scores and cancel them out before moving on. This makes it easier to avoid confusion and ensures that the correct points are added.

3. Communicate with Your Opponent: Regularly check the score with your opponent to avoid disputes. Clear communication can prevent any disagreements over points.

4. Understand Bag Placement: If a bag is hanging off the edge of the board but isn’t touching the ground, it still counts for 1 point. Bags that are knocked off the board by another player’s bag score 0 points.

5. Practice Mental Math: It’s a good idea to practice mental math for quick cancellations during a game. If you can quickly subtract the lower score from the higher score, you’ll spend less time calculating and more time focusing on the game.

6. Stay Calm Under Pressure: As the score climbs closer to 21, the pressure increases. Staying calm and focused on each bag’s placement can make all the difference in a close game.

Advanced Scoring Strategies

Once you’ve mastered the basics of keeping score, there are a few strategies to consider that can impact your overall gameplay:

• Block Shots: If your opponent has a lead, consider tossing a bag that lands just short of the hole but stays on the board. This "blocker" bag can force your opponent to change their strategy, either trying to knock your bag out of the way or risking their throw altogether.

• Slide vs. Air Mail: Some players like to throw their bags so they slide across the board into the hole. Others prefer the more aggressive "air mail" shot, where the bag goes directly into the hole without touching the board. Understanding when to use each type of shot can help you gain or cancel points strategically.

• Bag Placement for Cancellation: If you're already leading in a round, it might be worth throwing your last bag intentionally on the board to score 1 point instead of risking a miss. Sometimes playing conservatively ensures that your opponent can’t easily cancel your points.

Conclusion: Master the Art of Cornhole Scoring

Keeping track of scores in ACL Cornhole isn't difficult, but it does require focus and a good understanding of the cancellation scoring system. Mastering this aspect of the game will make you a more strategic player, whether you’re in a casual backyard match or competing in an official tournament.

Remember, the key to scoring like a pro is to stay organized, communicate, and use the cancellation system to your advantage. With these tips, you'll not only improve your scorekeeping but also your overall gameplay.

So next time you step up to the board, you'll know exactly how to score like a seasoned ACL Cornhole player. Game on!