I made this cake with the Wilton football pan (cake turned upside down) and 3 mini sports ball halves. I carved out a small amount of the middle, just enough to let the 'peas' set in. I would suggest using a firm cake and carving only what you absolutely have to out of the center; the first time I made this cake the ends started to fall off. Also, ice the bottom (top of the football) first and then flip it over.