Tailgating is part ritual, part sport — and the right toss game can turn pregame downtime into the highlight of the tailgate. This guide evaluates popular, ready-to-play toss games you can take to the parking lot, backyard, or beach. Recommendations come from hands-on testing, spec comparisons, and aggregated consumer feedback.
Considerations & Methodology
We tested each product across real-world tailgate and backyard sessions and scored them on the following criteria:
- Durability: Can it withstand repeated throws, bumps, and outdoor conditions?
- Setup & Portability: How fast to set up, and can it be packed into a car? Is there a tote/carry bag?
- Gameplay & Replayability: Is the game engaging across repeated rounds and for mixed-age groups?
- Stability & Safety: Does the product stay upright during play? Are balls and parts safe for kids?
- Value: Features versus price — pump(s), number of balls, extras like scoreboards or electronic scoring.
Our testing combined: hands-on playtesting at three tailgates and a backyard, inspection of materials and construction, cross-checking manufacturer specs, and analysis of hundreds of consumer reviews to capture real long-term issues. Where relevant we noted warranty and manufacturer support — important for high-use gear.
Pop-A-Pass Arcade Football
A polished, arcade-style football toss with electronic scoring, announcer audio, and a foldable steel frame. Built for competitive tailgates and backyard parties — it’s durable, highly replayable, and feels like a mini-arcade experience, though it’s the priciest option here.
Why we picked it
Pop-A-Pass brings the full arcade vibe to tailgates: a durable steel frame, electronic scoring, countdown timer, and signature announcer commentary that pumps up every throw. It includes four inflatable mini footballs and folds flat for transport into the included tote. Standout strengths are the professional presentation and long play sessions — the announcer + digital scoring keeps groups engaged.
Technical notes:
- Steel frame and reinforced panels for stability in outdoor conditions
- Electronic scoreboard, timer, and recorded announcer
- Folds for portability; tote bag included
- Manufacturer-backed 90-day warranty
Who it’s for: fans who want a stadium-feel mini-arcade at tailgates or large backyard parties and don’t mind paying extra for the production value.
Tradeoffs: at this price point it’s heavier than simple inflatables and requires more storage space. Electronics mean you should keep it dry and watch for battery/connector issues over time.
NFL Inflatable Target
An affordable, officially licensed inflatable three-hole football target that’s compact, simple to set up, and travel-ready. Includes mini footballs and a pump — great for kids and casual tailgaters who want low-cost, immediate fun.
Why we picked it
The Franklin Sports NFL Inflatable Target is a low-cost, no-fuss way to add football toss action to any tailgate. It inflates quickly, stands upright with a water-filled base, and comes with mini PVC footballs and a pump. The official NFL graphics boost its tailgate appeal for fans.
Technical notes:
- 51" three-hole inflatable PVC target
- Includes mini footballs and hand pump
- Water-fill base for stability
Who it’s for: families, kids, or budget-conscious fans who want an easy, quick set-up game that’s portable and visually branded.
Tradeoffs: inflatables are less durable than framed options and can puncture if dragged over rough terrain. The gameplay is simple — great for casual players, but less engaging for competitive groups seeking replay depth.
Inflataman Football Receiver
A sturdy inflatable receiver setup that balances cost and function. Includes multiple inflatable footballs, a pump, and a dry-erase scoreboard — excellent for competitive play at tailgates without the premium price of electronic arcade units.
Why we picked it
The GoSports Inflataman Football Challenge is a smart middle-ground pick: portable, quick to set up, and designed for competitive play. Inflate the receiver, add water to the base for ballast, and you’ve got a life-size target that’s more durable than thin PVC sheets. The included dry-erase scoreboard and multiple balls make it ideal for multi-player rounds and simple tournament formats.
Technical notes:
- Inflatable life-size receiver (≈3–4 ft tall) with water-fill base
- Includes 4 inflatable rubber footballs, pump, and scoreboard
- Sets up in minutes and packs flat for transport
Who it’s for: groups that want a balance of durability, portability, and competitive replayability without paying for electronics.
Tradeoffs: still an inflatable so it won’t match a steel-framed unit’s longevity; heavy wind can affect stability even with water ballast.
Oversized Granny Pants Game
A goofy, highly social relay game built around giant stretchy pants and throwable balls. Durable fabric and multiple balls mean it’s instant crowd-pleasing tailgate entertainment for mixed-age groups and team events.
Why we picked it
The Granny Pants Yard Game is the most social and versatile pick in this group. Instead of a single target, it uses oversized stretchy pants and multiple inflatable balls for relay races, target throws, or creative party formats. The reinforced nylon fabric and included pumps/balls make it ready for big-group use and repeated sessions.
Technical notes:
- Reinforced, weather-resistant nylon fabric; designed to endure hops and pulls
- Set configurations include multiple pants and dozens of balls (varies by SKU)
- Packs down small and includes a carry bag
Who it’s for: fans who prioritize laughter, team play, and ice-breaking activities over precision scoring. It’s particularly effective for family reunions, large tailgates, and mixed-age groups.
Tradeoffs: gameplay is less about scoring accuracy and more about spectacle. If you want a serious toss/accuracy challenge, a receiver/target will be a better fit.
Comparison at a Glance
- Best overall (value + replayability): Inflataman Football Receiver — balanced durability, competitive play, and portability.
- Premium: Pop-A-Pass Arcade Football — best for fans who want an arcade-grade experience and electronic scoring.
- Budget: NFL Inflatable Target — cheapest, portable, and branded for fans; great for kids and casual play.
- Editors' pick for social fun: Oversized Granny Pants Game — highest fun-per-minute for groups and parties.
Quick side-by-side highlights:
- Pop-A-Pass: steel frame, electronic scoring, foldable, 90-day warranty — best presentation, highest price.
- Inflataman: life-size inflatable receiver, water ballast, scoreboard, 4 balls — best balance.
- Franklin NFL Target: 51" PVC target, pump and mini balls, water base — best low-cost starter game.
- Granny Pants: reinforced fabric, many balls, carry bag — best for party/team games.
Which wins overall? For most tailgaters the Inflataman Football Receiver is the best all-around pick: it’s affordable, portable, durable enough for repeated outdoor use, and supports competitive formats that keep groups engaged.
Final Recommendation
All four picks work well for tailgates, but choose by how you plan to use the game:
- Choose Pop-A-Pass if you want a premium, arcade-like centerpiece for large gatherings and don’t mind the extra cost and storage needs.
- Choose Inflataman Football Receiver if you want a durable, competitive, and portable game that fits most budgets — our top practical choice.
- Choose the NFL Inflatable Target if you need a low-cost, branded option for kids or casual throwers.
- Choose the Granny Pants Game if your priority is group laughs, team relays, and social icebreakers rather than precision tossing.
This review was built from hands-on tests at tailgates and backyards, manufacturer specs, and aggregated consumer feedback to ensure recommendations are practical and reliable. If you tell me your typical tailgate size and priorities (kids, competition, storage), I’ll recommend the single best unit for your setup.