How similar is Rugby to American Football?

[Mike2931]

I've always been curious about Rugby, and was wondering how much American Football was inspired by it. Because it feels like a lot of Rugby is similar to American Football.

Do they share a lot of similarities?

 

[DAcamron]

It's fairly similar and inspired it a lot. The type of ball is different, but is close to the oval shape of the ball NFL uses. I know Rugby players don't usually wear protective gear either. Well I think they do, it's just not like what the NFL has going.