RULE 9
Conduct of Players and Others Subject to the Rules
SECTION 1. Personal Fouls
All fouls in this section (unless noted) and any other acts of
unnecessary roughness are personal fouls.
For flagrant personal fouls mandating
BAFA
review, see Rule 9-6.
Except as otherwise noted,
the penalties for all personal fouls are as follows:
- PENALTY -
-
Personal foul.
15 yards.
For dead-ball fouls, 15 yards from the succeeding spot.
Automatic first down for fouls by Team B if not in
conflict with other rules.
Penalties for Team A live-ball personal fouls behind the neutral zone are
enforced from the previous spot.
Safety if the live-ball foul occurs behind Team A's goal line.
[S7, S24, S25, S34, S38, S39, S40, S41, S45 or S46].
Flagrant offenders shall be disqualified
[S47].
For Team A fouls during free or scrimmage kick plays: Enforcement may be
either at the previous spot or the spot where the subsequent dead ball belongs
to Team B (field goal plays exempted) (Rules 6-1-8
and 6-3-13).
For Team B personal fouls during a legal forward pass play (Rules
7-3-12 and 10-2-2-e):
Enforcement is at the end of the last run when it ends beyond the neutral
zone and there is no change of team possession during the down.
If the pass is incomplete or intercepted, or if there is a change of team
possession during the down, the penalty is enforced at the previous spot.
Flagrant Fouls
ARTICLE 1.
Before the game, during the game and between periods, all flagrant
fouls (Rule 2-10-1) require disqualification.
Team B disqualification personal fouls require first downs if not in
conflict with other rules.
Striking Fouls and Tripping
ARTICLE 2.
a.
No person subject to the rules shall strike an opponent with the knee;
strike an opponent's helmet (including the face mask), neck, face
or any other part of the body with an extended forearm, elbow, locked
hands, palm, fist or the heel, back or side of the open hand; or gouge
an opponent.
(A.R. 9-1-2:I)
b. No person subject to the rules shall strike an opponent with his foot
or any part of his leg that is below the knee.
c.
There shall be no tripping
(Exception:
Tripping the ball carrier or simulated ball carrier is not a foul).
Approved Ruling
9-1-2
-
A player (a) strikes an opponent with the knee or
(b) projects the knee before contact with an opponent (most apt
to occur when the player is meeting a blocker).
RULING:
(a) and (b) Personal foul, striking with the knee.
Penalty -- 15 yards.
Enforce at the previous spot if foul by Team A occurs behind the
neutral zone.
Safety if the foul by Team A occurs behind Team A's goal line.
First down if foul is by Team B.
Disqualify if flagrant.
[Cited by 9-1-2-a]
-
A1, a ball carrier, strikes tackler B6 with his extended forearm just
before being tackled.
RULING:
Personal foul.
Penalty -- 15 yards.
Enforce from the previous spot if foul occurs behind the neutral zone.
Disqualification if flagrant.
Safety if the foul occurs behind Team A's goal line.
-
A11 completes a forward pass
to A88 who is tackled in the field of play.
During the play defensive end B88 is flagged for a personal foul
against A79.
RULING:
The 15-yard penalty is enforced at the spot where A88 is tackled (Rules
7-3-12 and 9-1 Penalty).
[Cited by 10-2-2-e-1, 7-3-12]
Targeting and Making Forcible Contact With the Crown of the Helmet
ARTICLE 3.
No player shall target and make forcible contact against an opponent
with the crown (top) of his helmet.
When in question, it is a foul (Rule 9-6).
(A.R. 9-1-3:I)
- PENALTY -
-
In addition to the 15-yard penalty, automatic disqualification.
The 15-yard penalty is not enforced if the Instant Replay Official
reverses the disqualification.
[S38, S24 and S47]
Approved Ruling
9-1-3
-
Forward passer A12 inside the tackle box is looking for an open receiver.
Before or just as he releases the ball, A12 is hit from the side at the
ribs, thigh or knee by B79, who dives forward and leads with the crown
(top) of his helmet.
RULING:
Foul by B79 for targeting his opponent and
making forcible
contact with the top of his helmet.
15 yards, first down.
B79 is automatically disqualified.
[Cited by 9-1-3]
Targeting and Making Forcible Contact to Head or Neck Area of a Defenseless Player
ARTICLE 4.
No player shall target and make forcible contact to the head or neck
area of a defenseless opponent with the helmet, forearm, hand, fist,
elbow or shoulder.
When in question, it is a foul (Rule 2-27-14 and
9-6).
(A.R. 9-1-4:I-VI)
- PENALTY -
-
In addition to the 15-yard penalty, automatic disqualification.
The 15-yard penalty is not enforced if the Instant Replay Official
reverses the disqualification.
[S38, S24 and S47]
Approved Ruling
9-1-4
-
Receiver A83 has just leaped and received a forward pass.
As A83 is about to regain his balance, B45 launches and drives into A83
above the shoulder area with his helmet or shoulder.
RULING:
Foul by B45 for targeting and
making forcible
contact with a defenseless
opponent above the shoulders.
15 yards, first down.
B45 is automatically disqualified.
[Cited by 9-1-4]
-
As ball carrier A20 sweeps around the end and heads upfield, he lowers
his head and contacts defensive end B89 who is trying to tackle him.
The players meet helmet to helmet.
RULING:
No foul.
Neither A20 nor B89 is a defenseless player and neither has targeted
his opponent in the sense of Rule 9-1-3.
[Cited by 9-1-4]
-
A44 is covering the kickoff that opens the second half.
As A44 is running at the Team B 45-yard line, B66 targets and launches
into A44 from the side, a blind-side block.
B66 first makes contact with his forearm at A44's (a) neck; (b) upper
arm or shoulder.
RULING:
(a) Foul by B66 for targeting a defenseless player and
making forcible
contact
at the head or neck area.
15-yard penalty at the end of the run.
B66 is
disqualified.
(b) No foul.
Although A44 is a defenseless player and B66 targets him, the contact
by B66 is not to the head or neck area (Rule 2-27-14).
[Cited by 9-1-4]
-
A12 who normally plays quarterback is lined up as a wide receiver in
the backfield and A33 is five yards behind the snapper in a shotgun
formation.
A33's pass intended for A12 is intercepted.
During the interception return B55 targets and launches at A33, striking
him in the side of the helmet.
RULING:
Foul by B55 for targeting and
making forcible
contact at the head of a defenseless player.
For the purposes of Rule 2-27-14, A33 is a defenseless
player since he played the down in the role of the quarterback.
[Cited by 9-1-4]
-
End A81 is split far to the left of the formation, to the outside of
defensive end B89.
On a sweep play in
his
direction
B89
moves to his left to focus on the ball carrier, losing sight of A81.
A81 then cuts to the inside, takes aim and launches at B89, forcibly
contacting him with his forearm to B89's neck.
RULING:
Targeting foul under Rule 9-1-4, 15 yard penalty, A81
is disqualified.
B89 is a defenseless player as he is subject to the blind-side block
(Rule 2-27-14).
[Cited by 9-1-4]
-
Ball carrier A33 has gained several yards and is in the grasp of two
defenders.
His forward progress has been stopped but the ball has not been declared
dead.
Linebacker B55 crouches and thrusts himself forward, driving his forearm
into the side of A33's helmet.
RULING:
Targeting foul by B55.
15 yard penalty, B55 is disqualified.
A33 is a defenseless player since he is in the grasp of the opponents
and his forward progress has been stopped.
(Rule 2-27-14)
[Cited by 9-1-4]
-
Pass receiver A88 has just caught the ball when defender B55 launches
and drives his shoulder and forearm into his upper body.
The back judge flags B55 for targeting to the head-neck area and he
is disqualified.
The referee makes his announcement of the targeting foul, and the play
goes to review.
RULING:
After review, Instant Replay rules that there was not forcible contact
to the head-neck area, overturning the disqualification of B55.
The referee announces that B55 is not disqualified and that there will
be no 15-yard penalty.
-
Punt receiver B44 is in position to catch a punt.
A88 races down the field and launches at B44, driving the side
of his helmet and shoulder into B44's upper body the instant before
the ball arrives.
The side judge and field judge throw their flags and report to the
referee that A88 is charged with kick-catch interference and targeting
to the head-neck area.
The referee makes his announcement of kick-catch interference with
targeting to the head-neck area.
The play goes to review.
RULING:
After review, Instant Replay rules that A88 did not make forcible contact
to the head-neck area, overturning his disqualification.
The referee announces that A88 is not disqualified and that the 15-yard
penalty for interference with the opportunity to catch a kick will
be enforced.
-
In a game without instant replay, the
competition
or teams have agreed to use the halftime review process for first-half
targeting fouls.
During the first quarter, pass receiver A88 has just caught the ball
when defender B55 launches and drives his shoulder and forearm into his
upper body.
The back judge flags B55 for targeting to the head-neck area.
The referee makes his announcement of the targeting foul and that B55
is disqualified.
RULING:
In the halftime review of the video, the referee and the crew determine
that B55 did not make forcible contact to A88's head-neck area,
overturning
the
disqualification.
The referee informs both head coaches that B55 may return to the game
in the second half.
Before the kickoff for the second half, the referee announces to the
spectators
that after review, the disqualification of B55 is overturned
and he may return to the game for the second half.
Clipping
ARTICLE 5.
There shall be no clipping (Rule 2-5).
Exceptions:
1.
Offensive players who are on the line of scrimmage at the snap within
the free-blocking zone (Rule 2-3-6) legally may clip in the
free-blocking zone, subject to the following restrictions:
-
-
(a) A player in the free-blocking zone may not block an opponent with the force
of the initial contact from behind and at or below the knee.
(b) A player on the line of scrimmage within the free-blocking zone may not leave
the zone and return and legally clip.
(c) The free-blocking zone disintegrates when the ball leaves the zone (Rule
2-3-6).
2.
When a player turns his back to a potential blocker who has committed
himself in intent and direction or movement.
3.
When a player attempts to reach a ball carrier or simulated ball carrier or legally attempts to
recover or catch a fumble, a backward pass, a kick or a touched forward
pass, he may push an opponent below the waist at or to the buttocks
(Rule 9-3-6 Exception 3).
4.
When an eligible player behind the neutral zone pushes an opponent below
the waist at or to the buttocks to get to a forward pass
(Rule 9-3-6 Exception 5).
5. Clipping is allowed against the ball carrier or simulated ball carrier.
Blocking Below the Waist
ARTICLE 6.
a.
Team A prior to a change of team possession:
Consider a low-blocking zone seven yards on each side of the snapper
extending five yards beyond the neutral zone and back to Team A's end
line (Rule 2-3-7 and Appendix D).
-
1. The following Team A players may legally block below the waist inside
this zone until the ball has left the zone:
-
-
(a) players on the line of scrimmage completely within this zone
at the snap;
and
(b) backs who at the snap were stationary and
at least partially inside the tackle box and at least partially
inside the frame of the body of the second lineman from the snapper.
(A.R. 9-1-6:V)
2. Players not covered in paragraph 1 (above) while the ball is still in the
zone, and all players after the ball has left the zone, are allowed to
block below the waist only if the force of the initial contact is from
the front, but they may not block below the waist if the force of the
initial contact is from the side or back.
"From the front" is understood to mean within the clock-face region
between 10 o'clock and 2 o'clock forward of the player being blocked.
(A.R. 9-1-6:I-II, IV, VII-VIII)
3. Once the ball has left the zone a player may not block below the waist
toward his own end line.
(A.R. 9-1-6:III)
4. Players not covered in paragraph 1 (above) may not block below the waist
toward the original position of the ball at the snap.
b.
Team B prior to a change of team possession:
-
1. Other than in paragraphs 2 and 3 (below), players of Team B may block
below the waist only within the area defined by lines parallel to the
goal line five yards beyond and behind the neutral zone extended to the
sidelines.
Blocking below the waist by players of Team B outside this zone is
illegal except against the ball carrier.
(A.R. 9-1-6:VI, IX)
2. Players of Team B may not block below the waist against an opponent who
is in position to receive a backward pass.
3. Players of Team B may not block below the waist against an eligible Team
A pass receiver beyond the neutral zone unless attempting to get at the
ball or ball carrier.
This prohibition ends when a legal forward pass is no longer possible by
rule.
c.
Kicks:
During a down in which there is a free kick or scrimmage kick, blocking
below the waist by any player is illegal except against a ball carrier.
d.
After change of team possession:
After any change of team possession, blocking below the waist by any
player is illegal except against a ball carrier.
Approved Ruling
9-1-6
-
A1, an end, is positioned 11 yards to the left of the snapper at the snap.
B2 is between the original position of A1 and the sideline.
A1 blocks B2 away from the position of the ball at the snap.
The block by A1 is below the waist and directly in front of B2.
RULING:
Legal block because it is directly at the opponent's front.
[Cited by 9-1-6-a-2]
-
Quarterback A1 is forced to run out of his protecting pocket, leave the
low-blocking zone, and scramble back and forth across the field.
A2, a wide receiver, positioned 12 yards to the left of the snapper at
the snap, moves downfield and then returns toward the neutral zone.
A2 blocks B2 below the waist clearly from the side, the block being
directed toward a sideline.
RULING:
Illegal block below the waist since it is not at the front.
15-yard penalty.
[Cited by 9-1-6-a-2]
-
On a run or pass option play, wide receiver A2 at the snap is positioned
12 yards to the right of the snapper.
He moves downfield and then returns toward the neutral zone.
The ball has left the low-blocking zone when A2 blocks B2 eight
yards beyond the neutral zone and below the waist directly at B2's front
and slightly toward Team A's end line.
RULING:
Illegal block below the waist.
Even though A2 blocks below the waist directly at the front, the block
is toward his own end line.
15-yard penalty.
[Cited by 9-1-6-a-3]
-
Back A31, a flanker positioned to the left side of a formation, runs a
deep reverse to the right side after receiving the ball from a teammate.
End A82 at the snap is positioned 10 yards from the snapper on the right
side of the formation.
As A31 turns the corner, A82 blocks B62 toward the left sideline.
The block by A82 is below the waist and generally at the front but
outside the "10 o'clock to 2 o'clock" width.
The block occurs behind or one yard beyond the neutral zone.
RULING:
Illegal block below the waist because it is too much to the opponent's
side and because it is directed toward the original position of the ball.
15-yard penalty.
Enforce at the previous spot if the foul occurs behind the neutral zone.
[Cited by 9-1-6-a-2]
-
Back A41 is stationary at the snap directly behind the right tackle in
a balanced line formation.
His left shoulder is inside the tackle box.
The quarterback hands the ball to back A22 who runs straight ahead.
A41 blocks B2 who moves into the offensive backfield to make a play on
the ball carrier as A22 reaches the line of scrimmage.
The block is below the waist and clearly at the side.
RULING:
Legal block.
A41 is partially inside the tackle box and behind the second lineman
at the snap, and at the time of the block the ball had not left the
low-blocking zone.
[Cited by 9-1-6-a-1-b]
-
Defensive end B88 blocks below the waist against tackle A75 one yard
beyond the line of scrimmage.
The block is at the opponent's side.
RULING:
Legal block because it takes place within the 10-yard belt.
Had this block taken place more than five yards from the line of scrimmage
in either direction it would be a foul.
[Cited by 9-1-6-b-1]
-
Back A22 is stationary or in motion inside the tackle box at the snap.
As the play develops, he leads a sweep to the right side and blocks
below the waist against a linebacker after the ball carrier has left
the low-blocking zone.
RULING:
Legal block as long as the force of the initial contact is at the front
within the "10-to-2 o'clock" region and is not toward Team A's end line.
If A22 is in motion at the snap, his block is illegal if it is toward
the original position of the ball.
[Cited by 9-1-6-a-2]
-
Third and seven at the A-30.
The ball is at the left hash mark.
Back A22 is split completely outside the frame of the tackle on the left
side, and B40 moves out to cover him.
The handoff goes to back A44 who sweeps around the right end.
As the play develops B40 follows the play and A22 chases him.
At the A-40 beyond the right hash mark, A22 overtakes B40 and blocks him
below the waist clearly and directly at the front.
The direction of this block is downfield and slightly toward the right
sideline.
A44 is tackled at the B-45.
RULING:
Legal play.
The block made directly in front of the opponent is legal no matter
which sideline it is toward, since it is not toward Team A's end line.
[Cited by 9-1-6-a-2]
-
First and 10 at the A-40.
A12 takes the snap and starts on a sweep to his right.
Guard A66 pulls and leads the play.
As the play develops linebacker B55 blocks A66 from the side at the
thigh at the A-44.
A12 is driven out of bounds at the A-48.
RULING:
No foul.
B55's block below the waist is legal because it occurs fewer than 5
yards beyond the neutral zone.
[Cited by 9-1-6-b-1]
Late Hit, Action Out of Bounds
ARTICLE 7.
a.
There shall be no piling on, falling on, or throwing the body on an
opponent after the ball becomes dead.
(A.R. 9-1-7:I)
b. No opponent shall tackle or block the ball carrier or simulated ball carrier when he is clearly out of
bounds or throw him to the ground after the ball becomes dead.
c. It is illegal for any player to be clearly out of bounds when he
initiates a block against an opponent who is out of bounds.
The spot of the foul is where the blocker crosses the sideline in going
out of bounds.
Approved Ruling
9-1-7
-
After the ball is dead, a player throws himself on a prostrate opponent
who does not have the ball.
RULING:
Personal foul.
Penalty -- 15 yards from the succeeding spot and first down if by a
Team B player and not in conflict with other rules.
"Piling on" applies to a ball carrier or to any other opponent who is
prostrate when the ball becomes dead.
[Cited by 9-1-7-a]
-
On a sweep play toward the sideline, linebacker B55 goes out of bounds
to avoid a block.
Guard A66 is leading the play, and just as he steps on the sideline with
his front foot he drives his shoulder in the waist at the front of B55
who is still out of bounds.
RULING:
Legal block.
A66 does not have both feet out of bounds.
Helmet and Face Mask Fouls
ARTICLE 8.
a.
No player shall continuously contact an opponent's face, helmet (including
the face mask) or neck with hand(s) or arm(s)
(Exception:
By or against the ball carrier or simulated ball carrier).
b.
No player shall grasp and then twist, turn or pull the face mask, chin
strap or any helmet opening of an opponent.
It is not a foul if the face mask, chin strap or helmet opening is not
grasped then twisted, turned or pulled.
When in question, it is a foul.
Roughing the Passer
ARTICLE 9.
a. No defensive player shall charge into a forward passer or throw him to the ground
when it is obvious the ball has been thrown.
(Exception:
A defensive player who is blocked by a Team A player(s) with a force so
that he has no opportunity to avoid contact with the forward passer.
However, this does not relieve the defensive player of
responsibility for personal fouls as described elsewhere in this
section.)
(A.R. 2-30-4:I and II)
(A.R. 9-1-9:I)
(A.R. 10-2-2:XIII)
b.
When an offensive player is in a passing posture with one or both feet on
the ground, no defensive player rushing unabated shall hit him forcibly
at the knee area or below.
The defensive player also may not initiate a roll or lunge and forcibly
hit this opponent in the knee area or below.
Exceptions:
-
1. It is not a foul if the offensive player is a ball carrier or simulated ball carrier not in a passing
posture, either inside or outside the tackle box.
2. It is not a foul if the defender grabs or wraps this opponent in an
attempt to make a conventional tackle.
3. It is not a foul if the defender is not rushing unabated or is blocked
or fouled into this opponent.
- PENALTY -
-
The 15-yard penalty is added to the end of the last run when it ends
beyond the neutral zone and there is no change of team possession during
the down.
(A.R. 9-1-9:II-III)
Approved Ruling
9-1-9
-
After forward passer A17 releases the ball, B68 takes two strides and charges
into A17, showing no attempt to avoid contact.
RULING:
Roughing the passer.
The forward passer is a defenseless player who is vulnerable to injury and must
be fully protected.
After taking two strides, B68 should be aware that A17 has released the
ball and be able to avoid contacting him.
[Cited by 9-1-9-a]
-
Quarterback A11 drops back in the pocket and sets up to pass.
Just as he releases the ball he is hit by end B88 who drives his shoulder
into A11's knee.
The pass is (a) incomplete; (b) caught by A44 who is tackled after a
12-yard gain to the B-40.
RULING:
Foul by B88 for forcibly hitting the forward passer at the knee or below, in
violation of Rule 9-1-9-b.
Automatic first down and 15-yard penalty enforced at (a) the previous
spot; (b) the B-40, the end of the run by A44.
[Cited by 9-1-9 Penalty]
-
Quarterback A11 drops back in the pocket and sets up to pass.
He then scrambles to his right, sets up again and is in the passing
posture when he is hit by end B88 who drives his shoulder into A11's
knee.
A11 then pulls the ball in and goes to the ground because of being
tackled by B88.
RULING:
Foul by B88, violation of Rule 9-1-9-b.
While A11 is technically not a passer because he did not release the ball,
the action by B88 is a foul under 9-1-9-b because of the
vulnerability of A11 as a potential passer in a passing posture.
[Cited by 9-1-9 Penalty]
Chop Blocking
ARTICLE 10.
There shall be no chop blocking (Rule 2-3-3).
(A.R. 9-1-10:I-V)
Approved Ruling
9-1-10
-
On a forward pass play, A75 is blocking B66 at the waist behind the
neutral zone.
While A75 maintains contact, A47 subsequently blocks B66 at his thigh.
RULING:
Chop block.
15 yards from the previous spot.
[Cited by 2-3-3, 9-1-10]
-
As the flow of the play moves to the left, right tackle A77 is disengaging
from his block above the thigh with B50 when A27 blocks B50 at his knee.
RULING:
Chop block, 15 yards.
Previous-spot enforcement if the foul occurs behind the neutral zone.
[Cited by 2-3-3, 9-1-10]
-
Immediately after the snap, left guard A65 and left tackle A79
simultaneously block B66, who is in the neutral zone.
(a) Both blocks are at the thigh.
(b) One contact is at the waist and the other at the knee.
RULING:
(a) Legal blocks for a low-low combination.
(b) Foul, chop block.
[Cited by 2-3-3, 9-1-10]
-
Tight end A87 and wingback A43 are leading the play when both
simultaneously block linebacker B17, who is three yards beyond the
neutral zone.
(a) Both blocks are above the waist.
(b) One block is above the waist and the other at the knee.
RULING:
(a) Legal blocks.
(b) Foul, chop block.
[Cited by 2-3-3, 9-1-10]
-
After snapping the ball, snapper A54 brushes by nose guard B62 on his
way to block a linebacker.
A54 makes slight contact with B62, or B62 reaches out and uses his arm
to initiate contact with A54.
While B62 and A54 are in contact, right guard A68 blocks B62 at the knee
from the front.
RULING:
Legal.
A54 is not blocking B62.
The incidental contact or B62's initiating contact does not constitute
part of a combination block, and hence there is no chop block.
[Cited by 2-3-3, 9-1-10]
Leverage, Leaping and Landing
ARTICLE 11.
a. No defensive player, in an attempt to gain an advantage, may step,
jump or stand on an opponent.
b. No defensive player who runs forward from beyond the neutral zone and
leaps from beyond the neutral zone in an obvious attempt to block a
field goal or try may land on any player(s).
-
1. It is not a foul if the player was aligned in a stationary position
within one yard of the line of scrimmage when the ball was snapped.
2. It is not a foul if the player leaps from in or behind the neutral zone.
3. It is not a foul if an offensive player initiates contact against the
player who leaps.
c. No defensive player who is inside the tackle box may try to block a punt
by leaving his feet in an attempt to leap directly over an opponent.
-
1. It is not a foul if the player tries to block the punt by jumping
straight up without attempting to leap over the opponent.
2. It is not a foul if a player attempts to leap through or over the gap
between players.
d.
No defensive player, in an attempt to block, bat or catch a kick, may:
-
1. Step, jump or stand on a teammate.
2. Place a hand(s) on a teammate to get leverage for additional height.
3. Be picked up by a teammate, or be elevated, propelled or pushed.
- PENALTY -
-
15 yards, previous spot and automatic first down.
[S38]
e. No player may position himself with his feet on the back or shoulders of
a teammate before the snap.
- PENALTY -
-
Dead-ball foul, 15 yards from the succeeding spot.
Automatic first down for fouls by Team B if not in conflict with other
rules
[S27].
Contact Against an Opponent Out of the Play
ARTICLE 12.
a.
No player shall tackle or run into a receiver when a forward pass to
him obviously is not catchable.
This is a personal foul and not pass interference.
b.
No player shall run into or throw himself against an opponent obviously
out of the play either before or after the ball is dead.
Hurdling
ARTICLE 13.
There shall be no hurdling
(Exception:
The ball carrier may hurdle an opponent).
Contact Against the Snapper
ARTICLE 14.
When a team is in scrimmage kick formation, a defensive player may not
initiate contact with the snapper until one second has elapsed after
the snap.
(A.R. 9-1-14:I-III)
Approved Ruling
9-1-14
-
A10 is in a shotgun-type formation 7½ yards behind the snapper,
who has his head down and is looking backward through his legs.
Immediately after the snap, nose guard B55 charges directly at the snapper
and contacts him by pushing him backward.
RULING:
Legal.
The snapper is not afforded any special protection because it was not
reasonably obvious that a kick might be attempted (Rule 2-16-10).
The snapper does have the usual protection against any personal foul
for unnecessary roughness.
[Cited by 2-16-10-a, 9-1-14]
-
Team A is in an obvious scrimmage kick formation.
Immediately after
the snap, nose guard B55 charges directly at the snapper, contacts him,
and drives him backward.
The ball is snapped to an upback three yards
behind the scrimmage line or to the potential kicker, who instead runs
with or passes the ball.
RULING:
Foul.
Penalty -- 15 yards and automatic first down.
The snapper may not be contacted until one second has elapsed after the
snap when Team A is in a scrimmage kick formation and it is reasonably
obvious that a kick might be attempted.
[Cited by 2-16-10-a, 9-1-14]
-
Immediately after the snap, with Team A in an obvious
scrimmage kick formation, noseguard B71 attempts to "shoot the gap"
between the snapper and the adjacent lineman.
B71's initial legal contact is with the lineman next to the snapper.
RULING:
Legal.
Incidental contact with the snapper after this initial legal contact
is not a foul (Rule 2-16-10).
[Cited by 2-16-10-a, 9-1-14]
Horse Collar Tackle
ARTICLE 15.
All players are prohibited from grabbing the inside back collar of the
shoulder pads or jersey, or the inside collar of the side of the
shoulder pads or jersey, and immediately pulling the ball carrier down.
This does not apply to a ball carrier, including a potential forward passer,
who is inside the tackle box (Rule 2-34).
Note that the tackle box disintegrates when the ball leaves it.
Approved Ruling
9-1-15
-
As ball carrier A20 races down
the
field near the sideline, defender B56 grabs him from behind by the back
of the jersey at the collar or by the collar of his shoulder pad.
B56 continues with this contact for several yards but A20 does not go to
the ground until tackled by another defender.
RULING:
Legal play.
B56 did not foul because he did not immediately pull A20 down.
Roughing or Running into Kicker or Holder
ARTICLE 16.
a.
When it is obvious that a scrimmage kick will be made, no opponent
shall run into or rough the kicker or the holder of a place kick.
(A.R. 9-1-16:I, III and VI)
-
1. Roughing is a live-ball personal foul that endangers the kicker or holder.
2.
Running into the kicker or holder is a live-ball foul that occurs when
the kicker or holder is displaced from his kicking or holding position
but is not roughed.
(A.R. 9-1-16:II)
Note: "Running into" carries a five-yard penalty at the
previous spot.
3. Incidental contact with a kicker or holder is not a foul.
4.
The kicker's protection under this rule ends:
-
-
(a) When he has had a reasonable time to regain his balance
(A.R. 9-1-16:IV);
or
(b) When he carries the ball outside the tackle box (Rule 2-34)
before kicking.
5. When a defensive player's contact against the kicker or holder is caused
by an opponent's block (legal or illegal), there is no foul for running
into or roughing.
6. A player who makes contact with the kicker or holder after touching the
kick is not charged with running into or roughing the kicker.
7. When a player other than one who blocks a scrimmage kick runs into or
roughs the kicker or holder, it is a foul.
8.
When in question whether the foul is
running into
or
roughing,
the foul is
roughing.
b.
A kicker or holder simulating being roughed or run into by a defensive
player commits an unsportsmanlike act.
(A.R. 9-1-16:V)
- PENALTY -
-
[a-b]
15 yards from the previous spot plus automatic first down if not in
conflict with other rules
[S27 or S30].
c.
The kicker of a free kick may not be blocked until he has advanced five
yards beyond his restraining line or the kick has touched a player,
an official or the ground.
- PENALTY -
-
15 yards from the previous spot
[S40].
Approved Ruling
9-1-16
-
A1 catches a long snap and plans to punt from behind his line of
scrimmage, but misses the ball, which falls to the ground.
A1 is then contacted by B1.
RULING:
Team A fumble.
No foul by B1.
There is no kicker until the ball is kicked.
[Cited by 9-1-16-a]
-
A1 kicks the ball, after which B1, unable to stop his attempt to block
the kick, runs into the kicker or holder.
RULING:
Penalty -- Five yards from the previous spot.
Roughing and 15 yards and first down if in question as to whether the
foul is "running into" or "roughing".
[Cited by 9-1-16-a-2]
-
A1, from a non-scrimmage kick formation, makes a quick, unexpected kick
so suddenly that B1 cannot avoid contact.
RULING:
This is not roughing or running into the kicker, since the rule applies
only when it is reasonably obvious that a kick will be made.
[Cited by 9-1-16-a]
-
B1 runs into player A1, who has kicked the ball and has had a reasonable
time to regain his balance.
RULING:
Not a foul by B1 unless ruled as running into or throwing himself
against an opponent obviously out of the play (Rule
9-1-12).
[Cited by 9-1-16-a-4-a]
-
After B1 runs into the kicker, kicker A25 simulates being roughed.
RULING:
Offsetting fouls.
[Cited by 9-1-16-b]
-
Kicker A1, in a scrimmage kick formation, moves laterally two or three
steps to recover a faulty snap, or recovers a snap that went over his
head, and then kicks the ball.
He is contacted by B2 in an unsuccessful attempt to block the kick.
RULING:
A1 does not automatically lose his protection in either case unless he
carries the ball outside the tackle box.
While in the tackle box, A1 is entitled to protection as in any other
kicking situation.
When it becomes obvious that A1 intends to kick in a normal punting
position, defensive players must avoid him after he kicks the ball.
[Cited by 9-1-16-a]
-
Punter A22 is 15 yards behind the neutral zone when he catches the long
snap, sprints to his right at an angle toward the line of scrimmage,
and runs outside the tackle box.
He then stops and punts the ball, and is immediately hit by a diving
B89.
RULING:
Legal play, no foul by B89.
A22 loses his roughing or running-into protection by carrying the ball
outside the tackle box.
Continued Participation Without Helmet
ARTICLE 17.
A player whose helmet comes completely off during a down may not
continue to participate beyond the immediate action in which he is
engaged, whether or not he puts the helmet back on during the down.
(A.R. 9-1-17:I)
Approved Ruling
9-1-17
-
During a down B55's helmet comes off without a helmet foul by Team A.
B55 immediately picks up his helmet, puts it on and continues to chase
the ball carrier.
RULING:
Personal foul by B55 for continuing to participate after losing his
helmet.
The clock stops at the end of the down and B55 must leave the game for
the next down (Rule 3-3-9).
[Cited by 9-1-17]
SECTION 2. Unsportsmanlike Conduct Fouls
Unsportsmanlike Acts
ARTICLE 1.
There shall be no unsportsmanlike conduct or any act that interferes
with orderly game administration on the part of players, substitutes,
coaches, authorised attendants or any other persons subject to the
rules, before the game, during the game or between periods.
Infractions for these acts by players are administered as either
live-ball or dead-ball fouls depending on when they occur.
(A.R. 9-2-1:I-X)
a.
Specifically prohibited acts and conduct include:
-
1. No player, substitute, coach or other person subject to the rules shall
use abusive, threatening or obscene language or gestures, or engage in
such acts that provoke ill will or are demeaning to an opponent, to game
officials or to the image of the game, including but not limited to:
-
-
(a) Pointing the finger(s), hand(s), arm(s) or ball at an opponent, or
imitating the slashing of the throat.
(b) Taunting, baiting or ridiculing an opponent verbally.
(c) Inciting an opponent or spectators in any other way, such as simulating
the firing of a weapon or placing a hand by the ear to request
recognition.
(d) Any delayed, excessive, prolonged or choreographed act by which a player
(or players) attempts to focus attention upon himself (or themselves).
(e) An unopposed ball carrier obviously altering stride as he approaches
the opponent's goal line or diving into the end zone.
(f) A player removing his helmet after the ball is dead and before he is in
the team area
(Exceptions:
Team, media or injury timeouts; equipment adjustment; through play;
between periods; and during a measurement for a first down).
(g) Punching one's own chest or crossing one's arms in front of the chest
while standing over a prone player.
(h) Going into the stands to interact with spectators, or bowing at the
waist after a good play.
(i)
Intentionally removing the helmet while the ball is alive.
(j) Dead-ball contact fouls such as pushing, shoving, striking, etc. that
occur clearly after the ball is dead and that are not part of the game
action.
(A.R. 9-2-1:X)
(k) After the ball is dead, using forcible contact to push or pull an
opponent off the pile.
(A.R. 9-2-1:XI)
- PENALTY -
-
Live-ball fouls by players: 15 yards
[S27].
Live-ball fouls by non-players and all dead-ball fouls: 15 yards from
the succeeding spot
[S7 and S27].
Automatic first down for fouls by Team B if not in conflict with other
rules.
Flagrant offenders, if players or substitutes, shall be disqualified
[S47].
2. After a score or any other play, the player in possession immediately must
return the ball to an official or leave it near the dead-ball spot.
This prohibits:
-
-
(a)
Kicking, throwing, spinning or carrying (including off of the field)
the ball any distance that requires an official to retrieve it.
(b) Spiking the ball to the ground
(Exception:
A forward pass to conserve time (Rule 7-3-2-f)).
(c) Throwing the ball high into the air.
(d) Any other unsportsmanlike act or actions that delay the game.
- PENALTY -
-
Dead-ball foul.
15 yards from the succeeding spot
[S7 and S27].
Automatic first down for fouls by Team B if not in conflict with other
rules.
Flagrant offenders, if players or substitutes, shall be disqualified
[S47].
b.
Other prohibited acts include:
-
1.
During the game, coaches, substitutes and authorised attendants in the
team area shall not be on the field of play or outside the 25-yard lines
without permission from the referee unless legally entering or leaving
the field
(Exception:
Rules 1-2-4-h and 3-3-8-c).
2. No disqualified person shall be in view of the field of play (Rule
9-2-6).
3. No person or mascot subject to the rules, except players, officials and
eligible substitutes, shall be on the field of play or end zones during
any period without permission from the referee.
If a player is injured, attendants may come inbounds to attend him,
but they must obtain recognition from an official.
4. No substitute(s) may enter the field of play or end zones for purposes
other than replacing a player(s) or to fill a player vacancy(ies).
This includes demonstrations after any play
(A.R. 9-2-1:I).
5.
Persons subject to the rules, including bands, shall not create any
noise that prohibits a team from hearing its signals (Rule
1-1-6).
- PENALTY -
-
Dead-ball foul.
15 yards from the succeeding spot
[S7 and S27].
Automatic first down for fouls by Team B if not in conflict with other
rules.
Flagrant offenders, if players or substitutes, shall be disqualified
[S47].
Approved Ruling
9-2-1
-
Team B scores a touchdown on a kickoff return, and substitutes from the
Team B area, with no intention of entering the game, run to the end
zone to congratulate the ball carrier.
RULING:
Unsportsmanlike act.
Penalty -- 15 yards, enforced on the try or the succeeding kick off.
Officials should note the numbers of the offending players, for
possible disqualification later in the game upon committing a second
unsportsmanlike conduct foul ( 9-2-1-a-Penalty).
[Cited by 9-2-1, 9-2-1-b-4]
-
Third and 15 at the B-20.
Eligible A88 catches a pass at the B-18 and heads for the goal line.
At the B-10 he goes into a "goose step" and continues this action
as he crosses the goal line.
RULING:
Live-ball foul for unsportsmanlike conduct.
Fifteen-yard penalty enforced at the spot of the foul, which is the B-10,
and repeat third down.
Third and 20 at the B-25.
[Cited by 9-2-1]
-
Second and five at the B-40.
Back A22 takes a backward pass from the quarterback, circles right end,
and heads for the goal line.
Guard A66, who had pulled out to lead the play, legally blocks B90 to
the ground and then stands over him at the B-30 taunting and screaming
obscenities.
This draws a flag from the head linesman, when A22 is at the B-10 before
continuing into the end zone.
RULING:
Live-ball foul for unsportsmanlike conduct.
Fifteen-yard penalty enforced at the spot of the foul, which is the B-30,
and repeat second down.
Second and 10 at the B-45.
[Cited by 9-2-1]
-
Third and 15 at the B-20.
Eligible A88 catches a pass at the B-18 and heads for the goal line.
Very close to the goal line he dives into the end zone, with no Team B
player closer than about 10 yards.
The field judge is uncertain of the exact spot where A88 started his
diving action.
RULING:
Foul for unsportsmanlike conduct.
Administer as a dead-ball foul.
The touchdown counts and the penalty is enforced on the try or the
succeeding kickoff.
[Cited by 9-2-1]
-
Second and seven at the B-30.
Nose guard B55 is lined up in the neutral zone at the snap.
Back A22 takes the ball on a quick play up the middle, bursts into the
open, and at the B-10 he turns around and prances backward into the
end zone.
The head linesman and the line judge both have flags for the offside foul,
and the back judge drops his flag for the action by A22.
RULING:
Offsetting fouls, repeat the down.
Second and seven at the B-30.
[Cited by 9-2-1]
-
First and 10 at the 50.
The quarterback pitches out to running back A44 who circles right end
and races toward the goal line.
The line judge trailing the play flags linebacker B57 for screaming
obscenities at him, complaining that he was held by the tight end.
A44 scores a touchdown.
RULING:
Live-ball unsportsmanlike conduct against B57.
The penalty carries over to either the try or the kickoff, at the option
of Team A.
[Cited by 9-2-1]
-
Third and 15 at the A-45.
A12 drops back to pass and is sacked by tackle B77 for a 10-yard loss.
B77 leaps to his feet, beats his chest, stands over A12 and taunts him,
and showboats to the crowd, drawing flags from the referee and the
line judge.
RULING:
Dead-ball unsportsmanlike conduct by B77.
Fifteen-yard penalty at the dead-ball spot plus automatic first down.
First and 10 for Team A at the 50.
[Cited by 9-2-1]
-
Safety B33 intercepts a pass at the B-10 and returns for a touchdown.
As he is coming down the sideline covering the play the line judge drops
his flag after he runs into the Team B head coach who is just on the
field of play near the B-40.
RULING:
Although this is a foul that takes place while the ball is alive, it is
treated as a dead-ball foul because it is committed by a non-player.
The touchdown counts and the 15-yard penalty is enforced on the try or
the succeeding kickoff.
[Cited by 9-2-1]
-
Second and five at the A-45.
Ball carrier A33 breaks out into the open and has a clear path to the
goal line.
At the B-2 he suddenly makes a sharp left turn and trots along the B-2
as the Team B players begin to catch up to him.
He then carries the ball into the end zone.
A33 next runs to the stands and begins to exchange "high-fives" with
the fans.
RULING:
No score.
A33 is charged with two fouls for unsportsmanlike conduct, one live-ball
and the other dead-ball.
Both 15-yard penalties are enforced and A33 is ejected from the game.
First and 10 for Team A at the B-32 (Rule 9-2-6).
[Cited by 9-2-1]
-
After the ball carrier is tackled, A55 and B73 engage in a scuffle such
that officials have to separate them and throw flags.
Both A55 and B73 are charged with dead-ball personal fouls.
RULING:
Offsetting dead-ball fouls.
Each player is also charged with an unsportsmanlike conduct foul which
counts toward the two such fouls leading to automatic disqualification.
The referee announces either the first or second unsportsmanlike conduct
foul for A55 and B73.
[Cited by 9-2-1, 9-2-1-a-1-j]
-
During the play, the ball carrier fumbles and several players dive for
the ball.
B55 grabs A33 and slings him off the pile.
RULING:
B55 is charged with a foul for unsportsmanlike conduct.
15 yards and automatic first down.
The referee announces that this is either the first or second
unsportsmanlike conduct foul against B55.
If it is the second, B55 is disqualified from the game.
[Cited by 9-2-1-a-1-k]
Unfair Tactics
ARTICLE 2.
a.
No player shall conceal the ball in or beneath his clothing or equipment
or substitute any other article for the ball.
b.
No simulated replacements or substitutions may be used to confuse
opponents.
No tactic associated with substitutes or the substitution process may be
used to confuse opponents (Rule 3-5-2-e).
(A.R. 9-2-2:I-V)
c.
No equipment may be used to confuse opponents (Rule 1-4-2-d).
- PENALTY -
-
[a-c]
-- Live-ball foul.
15 yards from the previous spot
[S27].
Automatic first down for fouls by Team B if not in conflict with other
rules.
Flagrant offenders shall be disqualified
[S47].
d.
No player may play with cleats more than ½-inch in length (Rule
1-4-7-d).
- PENALTY -
-
Disqualification for the remainder of the game and the team's next game
[S27 and S47].
Administer as a dead-ball foul; penalty enforced at the succeeding spot.
Automatic first down for fouls by Team B if not in conflict with other
rules.
Team timeout.
- VIOLATION -
-
Rules 3-3-6 and 3-4-2-b
[S23, S3 or S21].
e. The referee will notify (in writing) his assigning agent of all
disqualifications for illegal cleats.
The assigning agency becomes responsible for implementation of the
penalty.
Approved Ruling
9-2-2
-
After the ball is ready for play, Team A goes into a formation
with two players split wide on both sides of the snapper and two other
Team A linemen adjacent to the snapper.
No more than four players are legally in the backfield.
Team A sends in two substitutes, who take positions on the line of
scrimmage adjacent to the two split offensive linemen on the opposite
side of the field from their team bench.
This leaves Team A with nine players on the line of scrimmage and four
backfield players all legally in position.
Immediately and before the snap, two Team A linemen nearest their team's bench leave
the field and are off at the snap.
Seven players are on the line of scrimmage, five of whom are Team A
linemen numbered 50 to 79.
RULING:
Penalty -- 15 yards from the previous spot
This is a simulated replacement of a player to confuse the opponents.
[Cited by 9-2-2-b]
-
On fourth down at Team B's 12-yard line, A1 enters the field with a
kicking shoe while his 11 teammates are in the huddle.
A1 kneels and measures the distance from the neutral zone to the
kicking spot.
While his teammates are leaving the huddle, A1 leaves the field with
the shoe.
Team A quickly runs a play from scrimmage.
RULING:
Team A foul.
Penalty -- 15 yards from the previous spot.
There shall be no simulated replacement of a player to confuse the
opponents, and a player who communicates must remain in the game for one
down.
[Cited by 9-2-2-b]
-
A1 leaves the field of play during a down.
Team A huddles with 10 players.
Substitute A12 enters and A2 simulates leaving the field, but sets near
the sideline for a "hide-out" pass.
RULING:
Penalty -- 15 yards from the previous spot.
This is a simulated replacement of a player to confuse opponents.
[Cited by 9-2-2-b]
-
While a team is legally set to attempt a field goal, the potential
holder for the kick goes toward his team area asking for a shoe.
A shoe is thrown on the field and the player, in motion toward his team
area, turns toward the goal line.
The ball is snapped to the player in the kicking position, who throws a
pass to the player who had turned upfield after asking for a shoe.
RULING:
Penalty -- 15 yards from the previous spot.
[Cited by 9-2-2-b]
-
Team A is lined up in scrimmage kick formation and has been set for one
second.
One of the offensive backs shouts to and motions to A40, the blocker on
the right wing, to get off the field.
At the snap, A40 is in legal motion toward his sideline.
A40 turns downfield and becomes a pass receiver.
RULING:
Penalty -- 15 yards from the previous spot.
This is a tactic associated with the substitution process to deceive
opponents.
[Cited by 9-2-2-b]
Unfair Acts
ARTICLE 3.
The following are unfair acts:
a.
A team refuses to play within two minutes after ordered to do so by
the referee.
b.
A team repeatedly commits fouls for which penalties can be enforced only
by halving the distance to its goal line.
c.
An obviously unfair act not specifically covered by the rules occurs
during the game.
(A.R. 4-2-1:II)
(A.R. 9-2-3:I)
- PENALTY -
-
The referee may take any action he considers equitable, which includes
directing that the down be repeated,
assessing a 15-yard penalty, awarding a score, or suspending or forfeiting
the game
[S27].
Approved Ruling
9-2-3
-
After the ball is ready for play and the umpire is in his regular
position, Team A quickly replaces some players with substitutes, gets
set for the required one second and snaps the ball.
The umpire is attempting to get to the ball to allow the defense to
match up, but he is unable to prevent the snap.
RULING:
The play is shut down, the game clock is stopped and the defense is
allowed to substitute in response to Team A's late substitutions.
No foul.
The play clock is set to 25 seconds and starts on the ready-for-play
signal.
The game clock starts on the ready-for-play signal or the snap, depending
on its condition when play was stopped.
The referee informs the Team A head coach that any subsequent such
actions will result in a foul for unsportsmanlike conduct (Rule
3-5-2).
[Cited by 9-2-3-c]
Contacting an Official
ARTICLE 4.
Persons subject to the rules (Rule 1-1-6) shall not
intentionally contact a game official forcibly during the game.
- PENALTY -
-
Administer as a dead-ball foul.
15 yards from the succeeding spot.
Automatic first down for fouls by Team B if not in conflict with other
rules.
Automatic disqualification
[S7, S27 and S47].
Game Administration and Sideline Interference
ARTICLE 5.
While the ball is alive and during the continuing action after the ball
has been declared dead:
a. Coaches, substitutes and authorised attendants in the team area may not
be between the sideline and coaching line or on the field of play.
- PENALTY -
-
Administer as a dead-ball foul.
First infraction: Warning for sideline interference.
No yardage penalty.
[S15]
Second and third infractions:
Delay of game for sideline interference, five yards from the succeeding
spot.
[S21 and S29]
Fourth and subsequent infractions:
Team unsportsmanlike conduct for sideline interference, 15 yards from
the succeeding spot.
Automatic first down for fouls by Team B if not in conflict with other
rules.
[S27 and S29]
b.
Physical interference with an official is a foul charged to the team for
unsportsmanlike conduct.
(A.R. 9-2-5:I)
- PENALTY -
-
Administer as a dead-ball foul.
Team unsportsmanlike conduct.
15 yards from the succeeding spot.
Automatic first down for fouls by Team B if not in conflict with other
rules.
[S27]
Approved Ruling
9-2-5
-
On the opening kickoff, B22 catches the kick at his goal line and returns
the ball down the sideline on Team B's side of the field.
As he moves down the sideline officiating the play, the side judge
either runs into or must run around a Team B coach or squad member in
the restricted area ("the white").
B22 is driven out of bounds at the A-20.
RULING:
Either situation is physical interference with an official during
the play.
No warning.
Team B foul for unsportsmanlike conduct administered as a dead-ball
foul.
After the 15-yard penalty, Team B will have first and 10 at the A-35.
[Cited by 9-2-5-b]
Disqualified players
ARTICLE 6.
a. Any player or identified squad member in uniform who commits two
unsportsmanlike conduct fouls in the same game shall be disqualified.
b.
A disqualified player must leave the playing enclosure
(Rule 2-31-5)
under team supervision within a reasonable amount of time after his
disqualification.
He must remain out of view of the field of play under team supervision
for the duration of the game.
Removing persons from the playing enclosure
ARTICLE 7.
The referee may require game management to remove any person from the
playing enclosure
(Rule 2-31-5)
who he believes poses a threat to the safety of persons subject to the
rules or the officials, or whose behaviour is prejudicial to the orderly
conduct of the game.
The referee may suspend the game (Rule 3-3-3-a) while this
takes place.
- REPORT -
-
Persons removed from the field.
SECTION 3. Blocking, Use of Hands or Arms
Who May Block
ARTICLE 1.
Players of either team may block opponents, provided it is not pass
interference, interference with the opportunity to catch a kick, or a
personal foul
(Exception:
Rules 6-1-12 and 6-5-4).
Interfering for or Helping the Ball Carrier or Passer
ARTICLE 2.
a. The ball carrier or forward passer may use his hand or arm to ward off or push
opponents.
b.
The ball carrier shall not grasp a teammate; and no other player of his
team shall grasp, pull,
or lift
him to assist him in forward progress.
(A.R. 9-3-2:I)
c. Teammates of the ball carrier or forward passer may interfere for him by blocking
but shall not use interlocked interference by grasping or encircling
one another in any manner while contacting an opponent.
- PENALTY -
-
Five yards
[S44].
Approved Ruling
9-3-2
-
In trying to gain yardage, ball carrier A44 is slowed by defensive
players attempting to make the tackle.
Back A22 (a) puts his hands on the buttocks of A44 and pushes him forward;
(b) pushes the pile of teammates who begin to surround A44; (c) grabs
the arm of A44 and tries to pull him forward for more yardage.
RULING:
(a) and (b) Legal.
It is not a foul to push the ball carrier or the pile.
(c) Foul for assisting the runner.
5-yard penalty with three-and-one enforcement (Rule 9-3-2-b).
[Cited by 9-3-2-b]
Holding and Use of Hands or Arms: Offense
ARTICLE 3.
a.
Use of hands
A teammate of a ball carrier or a forward passer legally may block with his
shoulders, his hands, the outer surface of his arms or any other part
of his body under the following provisions.
-
1. The hand(s) shall be:
-
-
(a) In advance of the elbow.
(b)
Inside the frame of the opponent's body
(Exception:
When the opponent turns his back to the blocker).
(A.R. 9-3-3:VI and VII)
(c)
At or below the shoulder(s) of the blocker and the opponent
(Exception:
When the opponent squats, ducks or submarines).
(d) Apart and never in a locked position.
2.
The hand(s) shall be open with the palm(s) facing the frame
of the opponent or closed or cupped with the palms not facing the
opponent.
(A.R. 9-3-3:I-IV, VI-VIII)
b.
Holding
The hand(s) and arm(s) shall not be used to grasp, pull, hook, clamp
or encircle in any way that illegally impedes or illegally obstructs
an opponent.
- PENALTY -
-
10 yards.
Penalties for Team A fouls behind the neutral zone are enforced from
the previous spot.
Safety if the foul occurs behind Team A's goal line
[S42].
c. Kicking team
A player on the kicking team may:
-
1. During a scrimmage kick play, use his hand(s) and/or arm(s) to ward off
an opponent attempting to block him when he is beyond the neutral zone.
2. During a free kick play, use his hand(s) and/or arm(s) to ward off an
opponent who is attempting to block him.
3.
During a scrimmage kick play or a free kick play, when he is eligible
to touch the ball, legally use his hand(s) and/or arm(s) to push an
opponent in an attempt to reach a loose ball.
d. Passing team
An eligible player of the passing team legally may use his hand(s) and/or
arm(s) to ward off or push an opponent in an attempt to reach a loose ball
after a legal forward pass has been touched by any player or
official (Rules 7-3-5, 7-3-8,
7-3-9 and 7-3-11).
Approved Ruling
9-3-3
-
A6 is advancing the ball.
During the run, A12 vigorously blocks B2 with a rough push in the back
above the waist.
RULING:
Illegal block in the back.
Penalty -- 10 yards.
[Cited by 2-3-4-a, 9-3-3-a-2]
-
A teammate of the forward passer or ball carrier, while charging across the
neutral zone, contacts an opponent with his hands and arms not parallel
to the ground or his hands cupped or closed but with the palms not facing
the opponent.
RULING:
Legal use of hands.
[Cited by 2-3-4-a, 9-3-3-a-2]
-
A teammate of the forward passer or ball carrier, behind the neutral zone, has his
arms parallel to the ground and contacts an opponent above the shoulders.
RULING:
Illegal use of hands.
Penalty -- 10 yards or 15 yards for personal foul, previous-spot
enforcement.
Safety if the foul occurs behind Team A's goal line.
[Cited by 2-3-4-a, 9-3-3-a-2]
-
A teammate of the forward passer or ball carrier delivers a blow with the hand(s)
closed to an opponent below the shoulders.
RULING:
Personal foul.
Penalty -- 15 yards.
Enforce at the previous spot if foul occurs behind the neutral zone.
Safety if foul occurs behind Team A's goal line.
[Cited by 2-3-4-a, 9-3-3-a-2]
-
A2's hands contact defensive player B2 in a legal block.
B2 spins to avoid blocker A2 whose hands then contact B2's back.
RULING:
Legal block.
[Cited by 2-3-4-a]
-
A2's hands contact defensive player B2's back when B2 spins to avoid
A2.
A2 keeps his hands on B2's back while B2 advances toward the forward passer.
RULING:
Legal block.
[Cited by 2-3-4-a, 9-3-3-a-1-b, 9-3-3-a-2]
-
A2's hands contact defensive player B2 when B2 spins to avoid
blocker A2, whose hands then contact B2's back.
After A2's hands lose contact with B2, A2 advances and pushes B2 in the
back.
RULING:
Illegal block in the back.
Penalty -- 10 yards.
Enforce at the previous spot if foul occurs behind neutral zone (Rule
2-3-4).
Safety if the foul occurs behind Team A's goal line.
[Cited by 2-3-4-a, 9-3-3-a-1-b, 9-3-3-a-2]
-
A1 in, beyond or behind the neutral zone contacts an opponent with open
hand or with hands closed or cupped and palms not facing the opponent.
RULING:
Legal block.
[Cited by 9-3-3-a-2]
-
A12 takes the snap and retreats to pass.
Defensive end B95 gets past tackle A75 and is about to tackle A12,
who is still inside the tackle box.
A75 pushes B95 in the back at the numbers to prevent him from making
the tackle.
A12's pass is complete for a touchdown.
RULING:
Foul for an illegal block in the back.
Penalty -- 10 yards.
Holding and Use of Hands or Arms: Defense
ARTICLE 4.
a. Defensive players may use hands and arms to push, pull, ward off or lift
offensive players:
-
1. When attempting to reach the ball carrier or simulated ball carrier
2. Who are obviously attempting to block them.
b. A defensive player legally may use his hands or arms to ward off or
block an opponent in an attempt to reach a loose ball (Rule 9-1-5
Exceptions 3 and 4 and Rule 9-3-6 Exceptions 3 and 5):
-
1. During a backward pass, fumble or kick that he is eligible to touch.
2. During any forward pass that crossed the neutral zone and has been
touched by any player or official.
c. When making no attempt to get at the ball or the ball carrier or simulated ball carrier,
defensive players must comply with Rules 9-3-3-a and
9-3-3-b above.
d. Defensive players may not use hands and arms to tackle, hold or otherwise
illegally obstruct an opponent other than a ball carrier or simulated ball carrier.
e.
Defensive players may ward off or legally block an eligible pass receiver
until that player occupies the same yard line as the defender or until
the opponent could not possibly block him.
Continuous contact is illegal.
(A.R. 9-3-5:I)
- PENALTY -
-
[c-e]
10 or 15 yards
[S38, S42, S43 or S45].
Use of Hands or Arms by Defense: Passing Downs
ARTICLE 5.
During a legal forward pass play in which the pass crosses the neutral
zone, if before the pass is touched there is a contact foul by Team B
beyond the neutral zone against an eligible receiver (other than pass
interference), the penalty includes an automatic first down.
- PENALTY -
-
10 or 15 yards and automatic first down if the first down is not in
conflict with other rules
[S38].
Approved Ruling
9-3-5
-
Before a legal forward pass that crosses the neutral zone is thrown,
Team B holds eligible A1, who is beyond the neutral zone.
RULING:
Team B foul, holding.
Penalty -- 10 yards and first down, previous-spot enforcement.
[Cited by 9-3-4-e]
Blocking in the Back
ARTICLE 6.
A block in the back (other than against the ball carrier) is illegal.
(A.R. 9-3-3-a:I, VII and IX)
(A.R. 10-2-2:XII)
Exceptions:
1.
Offensive players who are on the line of scrimmage at the snap within
the free-blocking zone (Rule 2-3-6) may legally block in the
back in the free-blocking zone, subject to the following restrictions:
-
-
(a) A player on the line of scrimmage within this free-blocking zone may not
leave the zone and return and legally block in the back.
(b) The free-blocking zone disintegrates when the ball leaves the zone (Rule
2-3-6).
2.
When a player turns his back to a potential blocker who has committed
himself in intent and direction of movement.
3.
When a player attempts to reach a ball carrier or simulated ball carrier or legally attempts to recover
or catch a fumble,
a backward pass, a kick or a touched forward pass, he may push an opponent
in the back above the waist (Rule 9-1-5 Exception 3).
4.
When the opponent turns his back to the blocker under Rule
9-3-3-a-1-b.
5.
When an eligible player behind the neutral zone pushes an opponent in
the back above the waist to get to a forward pass (Rule
9-1-5 Exception 4).
- PENALTY -
-
10 yards.
Penalties for Team A fouls behind the neutral zone are enforced from
the previous spot.
Safety if the foul occurs behind Team A's goal line
[S43].
When Ball is Loose
ARTICLE 7.
When the ball is loose, no player shall hold an opponent; illegally block
an opponent in the back; twist, turn or pull an opponent's face mask or
any helmet opening; or illegally use his hands or commit a personal
foul.
(A.R. 7-3-9:I)
- PENALTY -
-
10 or 15 yards.
Penalties for these Team A team fouls behind the neutral zone are
enforced from the previous spot.
Safety if the foul occurs behind Team A's goal line
(Rule 10-2)
[S38, S42, S43 or S45].
SECTION 4. Batting and Kicking
Batting a Loose Ball
ARTICLE 1.
a.
While a pass is in flight, only a player who is eligible to touch the
ball may bat it in any direction
(Exception:
Rule 9-4-2).
b. Any player may block a scrimmage kick in the field of play or the
end zone.
c.
No player shall bat other loose balls forward in the field of play or
in any direction if the ball is in the end zone (Rule 2-2-3-a)
(Exception:
Rule 6-3-11).
(A.R. 6-3-11:I)
(A.R. 9-4-1:I-X)
(A.R. 10-2-2:II)
- PENALTY -
-
10 yards and loss of down for fouls by Team A if the loss of down is
not in conflict with other rules
[S31 and S9].
[Exception:
No loss of down if the foul occurs when a legal scrimmage kick is
beyond the neutral zone].
Approved Ruling
9-4-1
-
Team A attempts a field goal from Team B's 30-yard line.
A Team B player in the end zone leaps above the crossbar and bats the
ball in flight.
The ball goes into the end zone and is recovered by Team A.
RULING:
Foul for batting the ball in the end zone.
The result of the play is a touchdown.
[Cited by 9-4-1-c]
-
Team A attempts a field goal from Team B's 30-yard line.
A Team B player in the end zone leaps above the crossbar and bats the
ball in flight.
The ball goes into the end zone and is recovered by Team B.
RULING:
Foul for batting the ball in the end zone.
The result of the play is a touchback.
Safety if penalty is accepted.
[Cited by 9-4-1-c]
-
Team A attempts a field goal from Team B's 30-yard line.
A Team B player in the end zone leaps above the crossbar and bats the
ball in flight.
The ball goes into the field of play.
RULING:
Foul for batting the ball in the end zone.
During regulation play, postscrimmage kick enforcement gives a safety
by penalty.
The ball remains alive, and Team A may elect the result of the play.
If Team A recovers, does not score and accepts the penalty, or if the
play occurs in an extra period, enforcement is at the previous spot.
[Cited by 9-4-1-c]
-
Team A attempts a place kick on the try.
A Team B player in the end zone leaps above the crossbar and bats the
ball in flight.
The ball goes out of bounds in the end zone.
RULING:
Foul for batting the ball in the end zone.
Penalty -- Half the distance from the previous spot.
Postscrimmage kick rules do not apply on the try (Rule 10-2-3).
[Cited by 9-4-1-c]
-
Team A attempts a place kick on the try.
A Team B player in the end zone leaps above the crossbar and bats the
ball in flight.
The ball goes into the end zone and is recovered by Team A.
RULING:
Foul for batting the ball in the end zone.
Team A may decline the penalty and scores two points.
[Cited by 9-4-1-c]
-
Team A attempts a field goal, and B23, in the end zone, goes above the
crossbar and catches the ball.
RULING:
Legal play.
[Cited by 9-4-1-c]
-
Team A's fumble in flight is batted forward by B1, and the ball goes
out of bounds behind Team A's goal line.
RULING:
Safety.
Batting a fumble in flight does not add a new impetus (Rule
8-7-2-b).
Team B foul.
Penalty -- 10 yards.
[Cited by 9-4-1-c]
-
Team A's backward pass in flight is batted by B1, and the ball
goes out of bounds behind Team A's goal line.
RULING:
Safety.
A pass may be batted in any direction and the impetus is charged to
Team A's pass (Rule 8-5-1-a).
[Cited by 8-5-1-a, 9-4-1-c]
-
A free kick is muffed in flight by a Team B player in his end zone.
While the ball is loose in the end zone, a Team B player bats the ball
out of the end zone.
RULING:
The result of the play is a touchback.
Team B foul for illegally batting a ball in the end zone.
Penalty -- 10 yards from the previous spot.
[Cited by 9-4-1-c]
-
After intercepting Team A's legal forward pass on Team B's 20-yard line,
B1 fumbles at Team B's 38-yard line and B2 illegally bats the loose
ball at Team B's 30-yard line.
The ball goes forward and out of bounds.
RULING:
Team B foul.
Penalty -- 10-yards from the spot of the foul.
Team B's ball, first and 10 at the 20-yard line.
No loss of down is included in the penalty since Team B is awarded a new
series after the penalty enforcement (Rule 5-1-1-e-1).
[Cited by 9-4-1-c]
-
Team A is prepared to kick off.
The ball is on the tee and the referee has signaled it ready for play.
As the kicker approaches the ball it begins to roll off the tee just as
he starts his kicking motion.
The kicker follows through and kicks the ball as it continues to roll
off or near the tee.
RULING:
No foul.
This is not a violation of either 9-4-4 or 9-2-1-a-2-a.
The officials should stop play and have the teams line up for a new
kickoff.
If weather conditions dictate, Team A should have a player hold the ball
on the tee.
[Cited by 9-4-4]
Batting a Backward Pass in Flight
ARTICLE 2.
A backward pass in flight shall not be batted forward by the passing
team.
- PENALTY -
-
10 yards
[S31].
Batting Ball in Possession
ARTICLE 3.
A ball in player possession may not be batted forward by a player of
that team.
- PENALTY -
-
10 yards
[S31].
Illegally Kicking a Ball
ARTICLE 4.
A player shall not kick a loose ball, a forward pass or a ball being
held for a place kick by an opponent.
These illegal acts do not change the status of the loose ball or forward
pass; but if the player holding the ball for a place kick loses
possession during a scrimmage down, it is a fumble and a loose ball; if
during a free kick, the ball remains dead.
(A.R. 8-7-2:IV)
(A.R. 9-4-1:XI)
- PENALTY -
-
10 yards, plus loss of down for fouls by Team A if the loss of down is
not in conflict with other rules
[S31 and S9]
(Exception:
No loss of down if the foul occurs when a legal scrimmage kick is
beyond the neutral zone).
SECTION 5. Fighting
ARTICLE 1.
a. Before, during and after the game, including the half-time intermission,
squad members in uniform or coaches shall not participate in a fight
(Rule 2-32-1).
- PENALTY -
-
15 yards.
For dead-ball fouls, 15 yards from the succeeding spot.
Automatic first down for Team B fouls if not in conflict with other rules.
Disqualification for the remainder of the game
[S7, S27 or S38, and S47].
b. During either half, coaches and substitutes shall not leave their team
area to participate in a fight, nor shall they participate in a fight in
their team area.
- PENALTY -
-
15 yards from the succeeding spot.
Automatic first down for Team B fouls if not in conflict with other rules.
Disqualification for the remainder of the game and
the next game
[S7, S27 or S38, and S47].
ARTICLE 2.
The referee will notify (in writing) his assigning agency of all
disqualifications for fighting.
The assigning agency becomes responsible for implementation of the
penalty.
SECTION 6. Flagrant Personal Fouls
Player Ejection
ARTICLE 1.
When a player is disqualified from the game due to a flagrant personal
foul (Rule 2-10-3),
or flagrant unsportsmanlike conduct,
BAFA shall where possible
initiate a video review for possible additional sanctions before the
next scheduled game.
Foul Not Called
ARTICLE 2.
If subsequent review of a game by
BAFA
reveals plays involving flagrant personal fouls
or flagrant unsportsmanlike conduct
that game officials did not call,
BAFA
may impose sanctions prior to the next scheduled game.
Next chapter
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Editor: Jim Briggs, BAFA/BAFRA Rules Committee
rules@britishamericanfootball.org