Creating a Football Cake is a fun and rewarding process. Follow these simple steps to make your delicious cake:

1. Preheat Your Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.

2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, sift together the flour, granulated sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

3. Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the milk, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.

4. Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until the batter is smooth and lump-free.

5. Pour Batter: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.

6. Bake: Place the pans in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

7. Cool the Cakes: Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.

8. Prepare the Frosting: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar and cocoa powder, mixing well. Add milk and vanilla extract, continuing to beat until smooth and fluffy.

9. Assemble the Cake: Once the cakes are completely cooled, place one layer on a serving platter. Spread a layer of frosting on top, then place the second layer on top.

10. Decorate the Cake: Use the remaining frosting to cover the top and sides of the cake. Use food coloring to create your team colors, and decorate with edible grass, miniature footballs, and flags.