Hey officials. It's 2008 and a new season will be under way soon..
Stay tuned to this page for rules clarifications and updates provided by our state rules interpreters Don Cerimeli and Bob Sietsema.

Submit a question to Don and Bob

Exceptions to the NFHS Officials manual are printed in the AIA Handbook. These are the ONLY acceptable exceptions to the Officials Manual. We have conveniently made the entire football sections available to you here:

2007 AIA Officials Manual Football Section (HTML for your browser) or......

MS Word Document - 2007 AIA Officials Manual Football Section (for downloading to your PC).

Case Plays for New Rules 10.4.6 and 10.4.7

An updated ruling on information in error you may have received in rules class about scoring plays at the end of the game.......

After reviewing a case play from the 2008 book (page 57, play 8.2.2 situation C), it was determind an earlier interpretation was wrong.

The rule change this year which does not allow a penalty on the last timed down of Q4 to carry into overtime applies ONLY to plays where the scoring play is a TOUCHDOWN. The rules do allow a penalty on a TRY or FG to be carried into overtime.

During the WHITE HAT clinic, it was stated that NO live ball foul would carry into overtime. We now know that is INCORRECT. Please share the updated information with all of your area meetings and crews.

Here are questions and answers posed for the 2008 season .......

7. Kick Out of Bounds.... (posted 8-19-2008)

PLAY: Team K lines up in a scrimmage kick formation on third down and attempts a punt. The punt is blocked and the ball goes out of bounds 4 yard behind the line of scrimmage. Which team will get the ball?

RULING: Under Rule 5-1-3-e, any legal scrimmage kick which goes out of bounds will result in a new possession for Team R. R will have the ball 1st down and ten from the spot where the ball went out of bounds. This rule applies on ANY DOWN when Team K kicks.

6. Equipment (Glove) Question.... (posted 8-18-2008)

EQUIPMENT QUESTION: I have a question regarding the gloves likely worn by WR’s and RB’s. I see in the rule book that the NFHS label needs to be affixed to the glove for them to be legal. Out of curiosity I went to the sporting goods store to see if I could find a glove with the NFHS label and was unable to find a single pair. I then looked at the other gloves offered by different manufacturers and noticed that they list on the back of their package that the gloves are NFHS and NCAA approved.

So, the question I have is, “Are we allowing gloves by Nike, UnderArmour, etc that say they are approved yet don’t have the NFHS label?”

RULING: Rule 1-5-2-a covers auxiliary player equipment.

Gloves, which must be anchored by athletic tape; and even though modified, must have a securely attached label or stamp (NFHS/NCAA specifications) indicating compliance with test specifications on file with the SGMA as of January 1, 1994, unless made of unaltered plain cloth.
NOTE: A glove is a covering for the hand having separate sections for each finger and thumb, absent of any web-like material between the fingers and/or thumb, and completely covering each finger and thumb.

As stated in the rule, all gloves, when worn, must have a label or stamp. Players (and the Head Coach) are responsible for obtaining equipment that meets the standards. Game officials are not encouraged to overly scrutinize equipment.

5. Player Out of Bounds.... (posted 8-17-2008)

PLAY: Team A player goes out of bounds and
a) catches a pass and stays out of bounds.
b) while out of bounds bats a ball away from a Team B player who is in field play.

RULING: The specific rule under consideration is 9.6.1, which states no player of Team A (or Team K) shall go out of bounds and return during the down. The penalty, when appropriate, is Illegal Participation. Please keep the verb “participate” as the primary focus in determining if a foul should be called.

In Situation “a” mentioned above, no foul has been committed as the pass was out of bounds and would be ruled as incomplete.

In Situation “b”, a foul has been committed. The key is the player from Team A has become involved with a live ball and participated in the play, even though the player is not standing inbounds. Further, the ball will become dead when batted by Team A (Rule 4-2-e-3).

4. Participating player previously Out of Bounds.... (posted 8-9-2008)

PLAY: On a pass play, a receiver running down the side line steps on the out of bounds line, goes up in the air and catches the pass and it was a legal catch as long as he came down in bounds. The rule clearly states that a player cannot step out of bounds then become a player again without a penalty.

RULING: There are two separate things to be considered in this play. First, once an offensive player goes out of bounds, that player may no longer legally participate (Rule 9.6.1). In the play above, a foul for illegal participation should be called against the receiver. The foul occurs when the player returns inbounds to participate in the play. The second issue is the catch. As described above, the pass is complete and the play continues even though the player who caught the ball has committed a foul. It is important to let the play finish and then consider the consequences of any fouls. Technically, the catch is legal. However, the penalty for illegal participation would likely be accepted and negate the play.

3. Letter from MD clearing player.... (posted 8-7-2008)

PLAY: When they meet with the home team head coach before the game, the referee and umpire are shown a letter signed by an MD clearing #83 to play despite a broken and heavily padded hand. Does the umpire keep the letter as clear evidence in case of an eventual liability problem, or does the letter remain with the team?

RULING: The umpire will review the letter and make note of it on his game card. The letter will remain in the possession of the team. The umpire DOES NOT keep the letter presented by the team.

2. Intentional Pass Interference & Unsportsmanlike Conduct.... (posted 7-9-2008)

PLAY: Under this section, an additional 15 yard penalty may be assessed if Pass Interference by either A or B is determined to be intentional. This is considered to be USC based on the signal (S27) associated with it, I assume. (A discussion of what can be considered intentional may be saved for another day if you wish).

My question is this: Is that USC foul counted against the two for that player that would lead to automatic disqualification?

RULING: Yes, if the covering official determines any pass interference to be INTENTIONAL, the unsportsmanlike conduct penalty shall be counted as one of the permissible two towards disqualification.

An example where this type of foul might be called could include, but not be limited to, a player realizing he has been beaten in coverage (and not wanting to allow a touchdown pass) chooses to tackle the receiver with no regard for defending the pass.

The covering official and the referee should record the player number when the foul is administered, thus preserving the information in the event a subsequent USC foul is called.

Play 1: K1 Punts from his 11 yard line. R1 blocks punt and ball rolls toward Ks goal line. K1 kicks ball at 3 yard line sending it through his end zone and across end line. Illegal kicking at 3 yard line. What are options?

RULING 1: The result of the play is a safety. The options available to Team B are: 1. Decline penalty. Accept safety and receive free kick from the K 20 yard line. 2. Accept foul. Penalize “half the distance” from the three yard line. K replays down from 1 ½ yd line.

Play 2: K1 In punt formation at his 6 yard line. High snap sends ball through K1 hands. Ball is rolling towards K's End line when K1 picks the ball up and kicks the ball. R1 blocks kick over the K's end line. K wants roughing the kicker call. Safety and K free kicks from 20 yards line.

RULING 2: While I am unsure what the actual question is for this play, I will address the result. A blocked scrimmage kick which crosses K’s end line will result in a safety. K would then free kick from the K 20 yard line. Relative to the desire to have a roughing the kicker penalty called, the Referee would have the judgment call to determine if a foul did occur. A kicker is entitled to protection from roughing even when the snap is mishandled. The Referee should consider whether the defensive player had an opportunity to recognize the act of kicking and react accordingly. When a kick is blocked by a defensive player, that player is given latitude in contacting the kicker.

Here are questions and answers posed from the 2007 season .......

25. Roughing Passer Enforcement with Change of Possession (posted 11-13-2007)

Team A has possession of the ball at A's 40 yard line. A1's pass is complete to A4. However, A4 fumbles the ball at B's 45 yard line. It is recovered by B4. During the play, B2 is called for roughing the passer. I know A will keep the ball. However, where will penalty enforcement take place? From the previous spot or from the bean bag (B's 45) where A4 lost possession.

RULING: Since there has been a change of team possession, the enforcement will from the previous spot (15 yards from the A40, plus automatic first down). The enforcement is shown on Page 70 of the 2007 Rule Book (Rule 9.4.4 PENALTY).

24. Kick Out Of Bounds

Play: Team K's free kick is rolling near the sideline where R18 is standing on the K15 with one foot out of bounds. As the ball approaches, but has not crossed, the sideline plane, R18 possesses the free kick.

Question: Is this a 6.1.8 free kick out of bounds foul, or is it R's ball 1-10 on the K15?

RULING First, I believe the yard line mentioned in the situation offered is intended to be the R15.

NFHS rules would have this play end without a foul and in possession of Team R at the spot of touching. Using rule 2.29.3 and 6.1.9 in combination, the above play result is appropriate.

The ball is clearly touched inbounds between the goal lines by Team R and is dead and declared out of bounds due to the position of the player of Team R.

The ball is awarded to Team R at the inbounds spot nearest the sideline where the play ended. First down and ten for Team R at R’s 15 yard line.

23. DPI Enforcement (posted 10-28-2007 note: This question was actually answered on 10-13 but got lost in my inbox. Apologies... web guy)

If a 2nd down and 20 play ends in an incomplete pass with a 15 yard PI penalty, is it then 3rd down and 5 or is first down and 10?

RULING Defensive pass interference is penalized by 15 yards from the previous spot and an automatic first down. If the play situation above, it would be 1st down and 10.

22. Player Equipment / Type of Foul

While carrying the ball during the first play of the game, running back A32 is discovered to be missing knee pads. Later that game the same player A32 is observed running in possession of the ball while wearing a completely clear mouthpiece. The penalty in each case is a 5-yard Unsportsmanlike conduct. The second Unsportsmanlike foul during a contest results in disqualification. Sure seems a somewhat severe penalty in light of being placed on par with taunting, etc. Would this enforcement be proper?

RULING The initial point to make is there exists no 5 yard foul in either case. Rule 1-5-6 allows for a penalty of this distance, but is for a different infraction. The situation where Rule 1-5-6 would be applicable is when a player deliberately removes equipment (a shoe, helmet, etc) during a live ball interval.

The officials would have limited options in the cases presented. One solution would be to simply use an official’s time out and remove the player from further participation until the equipment issue is resolved. This would imply the officials believe the Head Coach was not aware of the situation and the player was solely responsible for the missing/improper gear.

Alternatively, a penalty could be assessed on the Head Coach for Unsportsmanlike Conduct (Rule 9-8-1-h). Once the Head Coach verifies all players are properly equipped, and unless officials believe the player removed/altered/replaced said legal equipment, the Head Coach remains responsible for team members wearing legal and required gear. A second penalty of similar nature would result in the ejection of the Head Coach.

It is true the penalty seems severe. Please keep in mind player safety is paramount in games when minors are involved. The Head Coach does bear considerable responsibility. However, failure to properly supply and supervise the use of proper equipment could potentially have far greater implications.

21. Player Requirement on Free Kick

What is the minimum number of receiving team players between the 50 and 45 yard line on a free kick? Is there a foul if there are less than the minimum number?

RULING There currently is no requirement for positioning of the receiving team on a free kick play. Identical to a scrimmage play, the receivers cannot have more than eleven total players participating, however the initial position of each team member is not dictated by rule.

Several years ago, a rule did exist which specified having some players of the receiving team in the five yard belt nearest their restraining line. However, in 2007, no rule is present.

20. When to start clock after penalty enforcement (posted 10-5-2007)

When does the clock start on these plays?

1)3rd down the clock is running and A throws a pass and is interception by B, during the play is a foul on B for roughing the passer.

2)4th down and 10 on A's 20 A punts the ball and B catches on the 50 yard line and gains 5 yards. Foul on A for illegal formation and B accepts the foul. A) the clock was running before the snap B) the clock started on the 4th down snap.

RULING

For play # 1, the starting of the clock would be determined by where the interception by B ended. If it ended inbounds, the clock would be started with the Ready-for-Play signal. Alternatively, if the interception ended OB (or was run back for a TD), the clock would next start with the snap following penalty enforcement.

The principle is the same as if Team A were to have completed a pass and had the same foul as listed above.

For play #2, based on the information provided, neither team will be awarded a new series during the down which included a legal kick. Thus, Rule 3-4-3-c does not apply. In simple terms, the kick has no bearing on the clock status. The starting of the clock would be the same as any other down where a “simultaneous with the snap foul” occurs.

In example A), the clock starts with the RFP signal. In B), the clock starts with the snap.

19. Conserve / Consume Time (posted 10-1-2007)

QUESTION: When does the game clock restart after an offensive penalty when previous play was spotted in bounds (2nd Down)?

Example: 2nd and 5, 25 second clock down to 5 seconds, game clock running. Offensive lineman moves for a false start penalty. Penalty is accepted, now 2nd and 10, ball is spotted, game clock starts again, another 20 seconds runs off and same thing happens with same results. This happened three times in a row at the end of the half, over 1 minute ran off the game clock.

It was explained to us that the since the previous play ended in bounds and the offensive team committed the penalty, that the game clock automatically restarts after the penalty is stepped off and the ball is spotted. If correct, this seems like a great way to run out the clock if the other team is out of times outs, you could continue to take 5 yard penalties until you got to your goal line.

RULING The Referee has discretion. Rule 3.4.6 states ..

When a team attempts to conserve or consume time illegally, the referee shall order the clock started or stopped.

Clearly, in the play situation described, the team on offense was guilty of consuming time by repeatedly committing fouls. The Referee should have exercised the option to start the clock on the snap. Sometimes, with a newer/less experienced Referee, the clock rules may not be “top of mind”.

18. Illegal Touching vs. OPI (posted 9-25-2007)

I would like to revisit the illegal touching foul, 7-5-13. During the preseason rule meetings, we were informed that if the ineligible receiver by position (eligible number) catches the pass beyond the neutral zone, it’s OPI. Several officials have confirmed this interpretation.

I’ve reviewed the 2006 HFHS Football Preseason Guide, and it reads: Under a change to rule 7-5-13, acts by ineligible receivers that used to be considered offensive pass interference are now ruled illegal touching. If an ineligible receiver bats, muffs, or catches a forward pass behind, in or beyond the neutral zone, it is illegal touching. In the past, those acts beyond the line would have been offensive pass interference. The penalty for illegal touching is 5 yards from the previous spot. As you know, a 15 yard penalty, plus a loss of down, is a severe penalty.

RULING: OPI should not be called in situations where a player who is ineligible by position or number has contact with a forward pass. The rule change regarding illegal touching is specifically intended for this type of play.

Officials should consider ruling OPI for cases where the offensive player interferes or impedes the opponent’s opportunity to make a play on a legal forward pass.

If area meetings have provided improper information, it is regrettable and a correction is appropriate.

17. Officials Time-Out for Injury (posted 9-24-2007)

Would you please review for me the proper procedures by rule for the situation where we have an injured player and we have stopped play for the team medics to attend to the player. What I would like for you to address is what coaching can be going on, and where the remaining players need to be. Does each team have to have 11 players on the field? Can one player go near the sideline to receive instructions or can all players go near the sideline for instructions? Are all players restricted to be inside the hash marks?

RESPONSE: Injuries are an unfortunate element of our game. Our primary goal should be to allow timely access and complete cooperation for treatment of any injured participant.

I will address two types of stoppage in play: simple injury and major injury. In the case of a simple or minor injury, an official’s time out is called while the player is receiving treatment/care. Players are allowed water. Coaches are not permitted on the field, except to attend to the injured team member. Officials should consider the level of play (youth, JV, Varsity) and the specific position of the injured player. EXAMPLE: If the injured player is the snapper, it is appropriate to allow the team to have 10 players on the field during the injury time out and permit the substitute snapper to “practice” snaps in the team bench area. Similarly, if the QB is injured, allowing a backup to warm up his arm while the medical staff attends to the injury is normal. Also, in the case of position changes due to the injury, the coach should be allowed to give information to players relative to new position assignments.

During normal play, players are permitted to go near the sidelines to receive coaching between plays. This should not be restricted during an injury situation.

One key ingredient is the time involved in caring for the injured player. If the injured player has left the playing field, officials should promptly resume play. In cases of a major injury and where the time element is going to be longer than a few minutes (i.e. calling for an ambulance), officials are encouraged to send all players to the bench area until play is resumed. In these “extended” injury situations, officials should not be concerned with any of the above matters.

In summary, the highest priority should be proper care for the injured player. Game officials should utilize plenty of common sense when dealing with other, non-injured players. In shorter, minor injury cases, officials should limit coaching. In longer situations, officials should be more lenient.

16. Starting Clock after scrimmage kick

Ball kicked and goes beyond the line. Ball is rolling along and hits R's leg. It is covered by K. K's ball 1st and 10. Do you wind the clock on the ready for play?

RULING: Rule 3-4-3-c states the clock shall start with the snap when either team is awarded a new series following a legal kick.

15. Post-Game misconduct by Coach

The Referee holds the ball upward to indicate the fourth period has ended. As the game officials are leaving the playing field, the Head Coach of the losing team begins to berate the officials and follows them to the sideline. Can the referee give the head coach a noncontact unsportsmanlike conduct by the Head Coach, and send an ejection type report to the AIA?

RULING: Game officials should not engage the coach and should make every effort to leave the playing field and avoid further contact.

However, relative to Pursuing Victory With Honor, the State Commissioner of Officials has stated officials are authorized to continue holding jurisdiction until such time as they have reached the locker room (or other dressing facility).

After discussion with the AIA office, the State Commissioner wants all officials who feel an ejection is warranted for poor behavior to penalize the offending coach (or player) and advise the individual an Ejection Report will be filed. The offending individual would then be suspended for the next scheduled contest. The AIA office, after receiving the Ejection Report, will handle the administrative details.

14. Questions posed recently by a Head Coach (added 9-14-2007)

1. holders’ knee on x-point when a fake is called a. The offense / team A is lined up in a FG formation. They are running a fake FG. The ball is snapped and the holder initially shows the hold then flips the ball to another player on team A without lifting his knee off the ground. Legal or not?

RULING Illegal. Rule 4.2.2 Exception provides for the holder of a place kick to have a knee(s) on the ground and the ball to remain alive. Under this rule, the holder must rise (with knees no longer touching the ground), prior to handing or passing the ball. If the holder of a place kick pitches the ball to a teammate while having a knee in contact with the ground, the ball becomes dead and the play is over. During a PAT, the try would be ruled as “no good”. In the case of a FG attempt, the ball would be placed at the yard line where the holder pitched the ball.

2. screen pass blocking a. The offense / team A has called a screen pass. The QB drops and throws a forward pass to a receiver that catches the pass behind the line of scrimmage. Team A has lineman (that began the play inside the box) downfield when the pass is caught (behind the LOS). Legal or not?

RULING Legal. Ineligible linemen are restricted from going beyond the line of scrimmage only on forward passes which cross the line of scrimmage. Rule 7-5-12. b.

The offense / team A has called a screen pass. The QB drops and throws a backwards or lateral pass to a receiver that catches the pass behind the line of scrimmage. Team A has lineman (that began the play inside the box) downfield when the pass is caught (behind the LOS). Legal or not?

RULING Legal. Ineligible linemen are NOT restricted except on forward passes. Rule 7-5-12.

3. hands under center then simulating a snap on 4th down a. Team A lines up in a formation on 4th down. The QB places his hands under center. He feints the snap and immediately retreats into a kick formation / depth. Legal or not?

RULING This play is probably illegal based on information listed in the heading (simulating a snap). The QB is allowed to place a hand or hands under the snapper, call signals, and then shift to a new position. The term “simulating action at the snap” is the key as to the legality of the action. Rule 7.1.7.a indicates a false start penalty shall be called when any shift simulates action at the snap. Rule 7.1.7.b has broader implications, penalizing the offense for a false start for “any act clearly intended to cause B to encroach”. The second section covers exaggerated inflections by the QB during cadence and/or any unusual/special shift by offensive lineman which are intended to influence the opponent to commit a foul.

Example 1. QB pulls away from the snapper quickly as signals are being called and gives the appearance of the starting the play. Illegal.

Example 2. QB moves in a deliberate manner, slowly removing hands from under the snapper, and begins to go into motion. Ball is then snapped directly to a running back. Legal.

13. Fake Spike

Play: Team A quarterback fakes "spiking the ball" after taking a direct snap from the center. He then throws a pass. Is this a legal play? This has been discussed on the NFHS Discussion Forum extensively and the conclusion seems to be it is a LEGAL play, as long as there was not some type of deception used verbally prior to the snap. Is this different than the QB faking taking a knee which we ruled as Unsportsmanlike last year citing "Pursuing Victory With Honor"? I personally think it is a legal play as long as the defense was not made to think they were going to spike the ball prior to the snap! Thanks for the clarification.

RULING Deception is a part of the game. Generally speaking, the feigning of a legal intentional grounding act followed by a legal pass would be considered within the rules. The potential does exist the team might be outside of the rules if engaging in a specific verbal or physical act which violates the spirit of “Pursuing Victory With Honor”.

It becomes difficult to provide an all-inclusive list of what is allowed and/or what is not allowed. Officials are expected to exercise the appropriate level of good judgment in these cases. If it is determined a team did more than simply execute a “fake spike”, officials should be diligent in enforcing a penalty.

12. Foul by R on Free Kick at Rest

If a kickoff is at rest on R's 5-yard line and R1 intentionally kicks the ball through R's end zone, it is a touchback whether the penalty for illegal kicking is declined or accepted.

The Federation answer is: FALSE.

In my opinion, even if the ball is at rest, the kick has not ended. In addition, force is never a factor in relation to R's goal line. I think, in this case, that the result of the play is a touchback with the enforcement spot for the foul at the 5 yard line. Therefore, if would be R's ball 1st and 10 at R's 2-1/2 yard line.

RULING By rule, a new force can be added to a grounded kick as a result of an illegal kick (rule 2-13-1). For purposes of this test question, the correct answer is FALSE. The result of the play if the penalty is declined is a safety. R caused the ball to travel from the field of play into the end zone and across the end line.

When rule 2-13-4 mentions force not being a factor on kicks going into R's end zone and the result being a touchback, the context of the statement includes only kicks by team K. Consider a play where a kicked ball is fielded by team R and during the return, player R1 kicks the ball into his own end zone and across the end line. This play could never be ruled a touchback.

The proper enforcement of a foul by R on a scrimmage kick play which does not qualify under post scrimmage kick enforcement is to use the previous spot as the basic spot (rule 10-4-2-b, 2-33-1-a, 9-7-1 penalty).

In the play submitted, the illegal kick is enforced from the previous spot and measuring 15 yards against team R. Depending on the down/distance prior to the play, this may result in a first down for team K.

So, options for team K would be:
1. decline the penalty, accept the safety.
2. accept the penalty, 15 yds from previous spot.

11. On LOS at snap

If a linebacker is charging the line and while going forward meets the requirements of being on the LOS can he be blocked below the waist?

RULING A defensive player is considered to be on the line if, at the time of the snap, he is within one yard of the neutral zone. No consideration is given to whether or not the player is moving or stationary. In the situation presented, the defensive player may legally be blocked below the waist (rule 2-24-3,2-17-2)

10. Pass Contacts Official

If a forward pass hits the Umpire who is either in the neutral zone or beyond the NZ, does the tip/contact by the umpire release the offensive team from Pass Interference restrictions and eligibility restrictions?

RULING First, the position of the umpire in the play situations does not change the ruling. When a live ball contacts an official in the field of play, the ball remains alive. If the live ball happens to be a forward pass, as in this case, the status of the pass remains unchanged, meaning restrictions are still in place for both pass interference and eligibility.

9. Numbering Exception

PLAY: Team A is in a scrimmage kick formation and player A30 lines up on the line of scrimmage as an interior lineman, A30 is legal as a numbering exception. If A now shifts into another formation and A30 is now on the end of the line. As part at that shift, there are now five players numbered between 60 and 79 on A's line as interior linemen. The area group leader stated that A30 is now a legal receiver because A30 not now a numbering exception.

RULING The play presented has only partial information needed to make a ruling. I will address two separate situations which will clarify the rule.

Situation 1 If player A30 is in an ineligible position in a scrimmage kick formation AND only four other properly numbered linemen are in an initial position on the line of scrimmage, then A30 CANNOT gain eligibility through a shift. This applies even if, as an example, player A56 was initially in a backfield position and, as part of the shift, assumed a position as an interior limeman.

Situation 2 Player A30 lines up as an interior lineman in a scrimmage kick formation with A88 in a position which "covers up" A30. Team A has five other interior linemen with numbers 50-79. Team A then shifts player A88 to a backfield position and A30 now is on the end of the line. A30 is now an eligible receiver.

The key element is whether or not A30 is initially lined up in a "numbering exception" formation. If, as in Situation 1, this is true, A30 CANNOT gain eligibility through a shift. If, as in Situation 2, Team A does not initially line up in a formation which utilizes the "numbering exception", player A30 CAN become eligible after a legal shift.

If Team A chooses to utilize the numbering exception option, any and all players who are initially lined up with "eligible numbers" and in an "ineligible position" will remain ineligible throughout the down.

8. Penalty Enforcement on Kickoff after TD

PLAY: A has accepted a penalty that occurred on a TD and is being marched off on the KO. During the PAT B, having only 10 men on the field, enters during the down, but does not participate, thereby committing a live-ball foul for illegal substitution. Since this is a "non-player" foul (per page 26 or 27 of the CB)won't this foul be penalized also on the KO if team A desires? This would be consistent with adding an USC penalty that occurred on the PAT.

RULING: The non-player illegal substitution foul cannot be enforced in addition to the foul which occurred on the TD play. Only one live ball foul can be assessed on the kick off. See Rule 10-2-4. The Unsportsmanlike Conduct foul is clearly listed as the exception and is the only foul that can be added to another foul on the kick off. While the substitution issue is classified as a non-player foul, it still would fall under the general "multiple foul" category relative to enforcement. Team A would have the option of which of the fouls it chooses to have enforced. However, only one live ball foul can carry to the kick off (except for the specific exception of Unsportsmanlike Conduct).

7. Inbounds - Out of Bounds

Play 1 A1 and B1 are running together near the sidelines on a forward pass play. While the ball is in the air, B1 steps on the sideline, jumps into the air and controls the pass, then returns to the ground and lands with both feet inbounds. Interception or incomplete pass? INTERCEPTION.

Play 2 B1 is defending a pass play and standing near the sideline. He steps on the sideline, jumps into the air and tips the pass, and the ball is then caught by A1, who is standing with both feet inbounds. Catch or incomplete? CATCH.

Play 3 A1 and B1 are running together near the sidelines on a forward pass play. B1 has incidental contact with A1 while both are looking back for the ball. A1, because of the incidental contact, steps on the sideline. A1 then jumps into the air, controls the pass, and lands with both feet inbounds. Catch or incomplete? CATCH.

In all three plays the question is whether a player who steps on the sideline and last touches a spot out of bounds before jumping into the air is considered out of bounds. Conversely, do we ignore the last contact with the ground and look only at the place where an airborne player first contacts the ground after the jump? The NFHS interprets all situations above as the B player being considered as in bounds. Officials are not to care where an airborne player leaves the ground and, instead, monitor only the landing position of the player.

Rule 2-29-1 states that a player is out of bounds when any part of the person "is touching" out of bounds.

6. Batted Field Goal Attempt

PLAY: In Case Play 6.3.1 Situation C, it states that the batting of a field-goal attempt in the end zone is legal. This seems contrary to Rule 9.7.2 that it is illegal to bat a kick except in or behind the neutral zone or by a K player back toward his goal if it is grounded or in flight if no R player is position to catch it. In addition, Rule 4.2.2.d.2 Exception states that the kick crossing R’s goal line is not dead if it is a scoring attempt. This all seems contradictory. Is the case book play ruled the way it is because the dead ball exception does not apply when it is no longer a scoring attempt after the bat and therefore batted a dead ball or because there is no R player in position to catch the kick? What is the Federation philosophy that governs on this play?

RULING: For kicks which are scoring attempts, a player from Team R may legally position himself in the end zone and attempt to block the kick away from the goal post. By rule the kicked ball does remain alive once it crosses the plane of the goal line when the kick is a scoring attempt. Further, a player from Team R may legally bat a ball which is scoring attempt while the player is standing in the end zone. As stated in the case you cited, this is not considered illegal batting. If R is able to bat the ball prior to the ball breaking the plane of the goal posts, one of two things will occur. First, the batted ball may still carom off the R player and proceed through the posts. In this case, the touching (or batting) by R is ignored, the ball remains alive, and the scoring attempt is good (Rule 4.2.2.d.2 Exception). Second, if the batted ball is knocked away from the posts, the scoring attempt is clearly unsuccessful. Rule 4.2.2.d.2 (page 47) states a scrimmage kick becomes dead after breaking the plane of R’s goal line and having apparently failed. In this situation, a scrimmage kick beyond the plane of R’s goal line is dead and ruled as a touchback. The case book played listed above meets the criteria of our second option, where the kick has apparently failed after the bat by Team R. Accordingly, the result of the play is a touchback.

The NFHS philosophy is a kick which is a scoring attempt does remain alive after passing the plane of the goal line AND Team R does have a right to block the attempt before the kick passes through the plane of the goal posts. If Team R is successful in blocking the attempt after the ball has crossed the plane of the goal, the ball shall become dead and, since the kicked ball broke the plane of the goal line, a touchback will be ruled. However, if R touches the ball in an unsuccessful attempt to block the kick and the ball does, in fact, continue through the uprights, the kicking team shall be awarded a score.

5. Awarding a New Series

PLAY: After a punt the kicking teams coach wishes to review with the Referee that his team really only got three downs. By rule it says this cannot be corrected if a new series has been awarded. So the question is......is the series awarded when R blows the ready? Signals first down? The ball is snapped? I can't find it anywhere.

note: RULING updated on 8/9/2007
RULING: Rule 3-6-11 provides the opportunity for a correction to be made to this situation. During the coach-referee timeout, once it is determined only three downs were run, the scrimmage kick play can be negated, the ball can be placed at the previous spot, the box and chains can be set to third down with the appropriate line to gain (use the stat men, if needed), and the team can continue their series. The discovery and change must be made prior to the next live ball. In this case, the misapplied rule is 1-1-2, which states a team receives a series of four downs to advance the ball to the line to gain. Clearly, in the play submitted, this rule was not properly administered. Once corrected, the time out is charged to the officials and the opposing coach shall be notified of the ruling.

PLAY: Rule 4-3-c discusses inadvertant whistles and seems to contradict what is said in 6-7-c. In 6-7-c it states that "A free kick is not repeated unless there is and inadvertant whistle during the kick". This is different than 4-3-c. What if the kick has ended and during the run there is an inadvertant whistle. Under 4-3-c is says there is an option to reply the down. By definition it states that a down starts when a free kick is kicked. So which rule trumps?

RULING Under Rule 4-1-3c, an early whistle sounded while a player has possession allows that player’s team to select the option of having the result of the play at the time the whistle sounded OR to replay the entire down. This includes the replay of free kick if the original play was a free kick. Further, any change of possession down which might end due to an inadvertent whistle AFTER team possession has changed, is subject to being replayed if the team last in possession selects that option.

PLAY: Rule 6-1-7c refers to a more limited circumstance and does not consider all of the potentials mentioned in your play situation.

Page 63 7-5-4 is incorrect as it states that illegal touching is a five yard SPOT OF TOUCHING foul and loss of down when it occurs BEYOND the line. If it occurs BEYOND the line it would be a previous spot foul. Only when it occurs in or behind is a spot foul.

RULING You are correct, sir. The table lists SPOT OF TOUCHING as the enforcement spot for all cases of illegal touching. Rule 10-4-2b accurately describes the proper enforcement spot as the previous spot when the foul occurs BEYOND the line of scrimmage. Your keen eye is appreciated.

4. Sweat Bands

PLAY: Can you please clarify what was said at the White Hat meeting in regards to sweat bands versus those we have seen worn on the tricep (Under Armour I believe)? There seems to be some confusion on if these type of bands can ever be worn or not.

RULING In 2007, the NFHS has determined any accessory worn on the arm or leg to fall under the general category of a sweat band, whether or not the actual item is able to absorb moisture. Specifically, the rule requires any sweat band (NOT including a bracelet which supports any charity. ANY bracelet which supports a charity is to considered to be ILLEGAL regardless of the location where it might be worn.) and/or any compression-type band, to be worn only on the wrist area and not extend more than three inches from the base of the thumb. This rule makes the popular Under Armor bands (and any similar item) illegal when worn at the elbow. around the bicep/tricep, or on the lower leg. Officials are reminded to enforce this rule without exception, beginning with the scrimmages.

3. Contact on Receiver

PLAY End A9 runs a crossing route over the middle and is contacted in front and above the waist by linebacker B6 and before the ball is thrown. A9 is looking into the backfield for the ball when contacted. Legal contact?

RULING Rule 9.2.3.d requires defensive players to refrain from blocking eligible receivers who are "no longer a potential blocker". In your play, A9 is looking backward into the backfield when he is contacted, thus minimizing any chance of A9 blocking B6. Based on this information, a foul should be called on B6 for Illegal use of hands. Officials should be aware of the actions by A9 immediately prior to the block and not be "tricked" by a player who is attempting to avoid contact (or draw a foul) by "turning his head away from contact" at the last moment. This would be similar to a player who turns his back to blocker in an attempt to draw in Block in back foul.

2. Extending period - untimed down.

PLAY: During the last timed down of the 1st period, Team a scores a TD and during the play Team B commits a live ball 15-yard facemask foul. Time expires during the play. The captain of A informs the Referee he wishes to have the penalty enforced on the ensuing kickoff. Al- How would you enforce this foul based on what you know today??? Do we extend the period by an untimed KO?

note: RULING updated on 8/9/2007
RULING: In a recent interpretation by the NFHS football rules committee, the play above would result in a score, the try being run as part of the same period, the penalty enforced on the ensuing kick off also a part of the same period. The interpretation calls for the period to be extended with an untimed down in the play situation above. The Rule cited is 3-3-3a. However, it should be noted the period is NOT extended if the scoring play is a successful field goal or try and the enforcement of penalty is at the succeeding spot (Rule 3-3-4a).

1. Inbounds Toe-Heel Sideline Touch

PLAY: On the Aloha tapes that I have been viewing a point is made by the commentator that in Hawaii the toe touching inbounds followed by the heel coming down makes a reception near the sideline "incomplete". How will this be ruled in Arizona?

RULING: In the case of a "toe then heel" touching the ground along the sideline, the entire foot must be considered as a single touch. As you saw on the Hawaii videos, the interpretation in Arizona would be the same and the pass should be ruled incomplete.

Information on why Arizona DID NOT adopt a new Federation mechanics policy.

Here are questions from the 2006 season......

1. Use of certain electronic devices during the contest.

Last year, the interpretation for the use of cell phones by the coaching staff was ruled illegal equipment (electronic device). Is this consistent with your interpretation?

RULING The use of a mobile telephone device for audio communications is legal. As technology advances, schools may have preferences on the types of audio equipment to be used for communications during a football game. The line of separation for any communication device being legal falls in usage as an “audio only” device versus a device that is being used for audio and video purposes. The simple fact a device may have the capability to produce video (i.e. camera phone) should not make the device illegal. Instead, actually using the video features would cause the device to be considered illegal. Football officials are not encouraged to be any more sensitive than we have before in the detection and enforcement of the rules regarding the use of video for in-game benefit. However, should an official have awareness of this practice taking place during a football contest, the crew of officials is obligated to both stop the video from being used during the game and to notify the AIA of the situation.

2. Taping / Filming of Game

PLAY: More home team coaches are using a video camera on an extended lift to film the game from outside the end line (Chandler/Saguaro). According to the coaches at the time of pre-game said, this was approved by the AIA? How is this to be handled?

RULING The position of cameras, any associated equipment, support structures, or personnel to operate the cameras is limited only by the two yard belt around the field and additional safety concerns that might be present relative to the actual game and the participants of the game. Currently, TV crews have cameras in the area beyond the end zone and along the sidelines. This has not presented any significant issues or problems. Should a team desire to place a camera in a similar location, this would be considered legal. Clearly, any video (or still shot photography) could not be used for coaching purposes during the game.

3. Blocks in Free Blocking Zone

I am the offensive coordinatoor at xxx (edited by AzFOA) High School. We incoporate cut blocks into our quick passing game. The rule states that a cut-block is legal with four yards of the snap. We have been called for illegal blocking below the waist while in the shotgun formation. The block occurred immediately when the ball was snapped. I have noticed that you have actually addressed this issue in a previous posting. My question is why does this penalty get called if you have obviously addressed the issue and why is it called by some referees and not by others?

RESPONSE: Thank you for the question. I will address those requirements necessary for a block below the waist (cut block) to be considered legal. The interpretation shown on the web site is current and, as recently as last year, was being called differently by some officials.

I can appreciate your frustration and encourage your patience as the new rule interpretation is distributed to all officials. First, blocking below the waist is legal for offensive players who, at the snap, are lined up on their line of scrimmage and those same players are within four lateral yards from the snapper. This would usually include the snapper, both guards, both tackles, and the tight end. If the splits between players are larger, the tight end's position might prohibit him from the block below the waist. Secondly, the block must take place immediately following the snap and must be against an opponent who was also lined up on the line of scrimmage.

Some of the potential problems which might change the legality of the block below the waist would be: 1) the opponent was not initially on the line but was blitzing; or 2) the offensive player started to retreat and then initiated the block; or 3) the offensive player was either not on the line scrimmage as the play began; or 4) the offensive player was not in the "free blocking zone" at the snap (as described above).

One of the keys in the shotgun formation is that any block below the waist must be the initial move by that offensive lineman. Once the snap has been received by a QB in a shotgun formation, this block is no longer legal. The interpretation allows the blocks described here to be executed legally, but any delay by the offensive player will change the legality since the ball would have left the "free blocking zone".

I would also suggest having the Head Coach discuss this blocking technique with the officials of each game as the Referee and Umpire visit prior to the kickoff. This would be the best opportunity to discuss the situation and ask specific questions, thereby avoiding the potential for disagreement during the contest.

Note to membership: Please insure you are following the above guidelines when ruling on the above situation.

4. Delay starting game or 2nd half

The start of the game or second half is delayed because a band is still on the field. We know this is NOT a 15 yard penalty, as though the coach were late, it is a 5 yard delay. The question is where do we find this in the rule book or case book. We have searched, but cannot find it in the books this year, but are confident in the ruling.

RESPONSE: The easy part of the answer lies in Rule 3 Section 6 Article 4... Game management is responsible for clearing the field of play and the end zones at the beginning of each half so that play may begin at the scheduled time. Penalty: Delay of game 5 Yards.

However before throwing the flag for this infraction all Referee's should consider all the facts around this issue... How long is the delay? What caused the delay? Is this the Home or Visiting band? What effect is this delay really having on the game? Keeping in mind that the rule as outlined puts the home team in most cases as the team responsible for this infraction. Depending on the situation Rule 9 Section 9 Article 1... might be considered: A player or nonplayer or person not subject to the rules shall not hinder play by an unfair act which has no specific rules coverage. Penalty: The Referee enforces any penalty he considers equitable, including the award of a score.

This rule may allow the Referee to rule on this situation more equitably by not enforcing any penalty.

Please review a play my crew had a few years ago and give me your thoughts: The first half has ended and the visiting team band has taken the field. Halfway through there first song a band member has a medical situation which requires emergency first aid. It takes the entire half to get the situation cleared from the field. The band still wants to perform while the teams are waiting on the sideline for the second half to begin. What is the proper ruling? Should the visiting band be given the chance to perform? I think Rule 9 Section 9 Article 1 gives us the chance to make what should be the best ruling for everyone.

5. PAT whistle responsibility

Although I have vocally disagreed with the practice, I have had my BJ blow the whistle on all attempts to score by kicking the ball. In the past, it has been appropriate and customary for the Referee to blow the whistle on PAT's that are kicked. It has always been my belief that until we have a 2-point return PAT by the defense in the NF rules, that practice of the referee blowing the whistle once the ball has been kicked should still be used. There is maybe one instance where a kicked ball that goes straight up when the mechanic might be incorrect. But according to Advisory Council chair, Brian Mahoney, Speaking on behalf of the Advisory Council, Chairman Brian Mahoney stated, "We want to have the best coverage on the most probable outcomes of the play." I think Brian's statement could apply to the mechanic of blowing the whistle as well...Normally the ball is kicked...Normally the ball is kicked toward the goal. In all my years of officiating, I have NEVER seen a placekick go straight up. Until there is a change however, I have gone with the directive and have had the BJ blow on all kicks of this nature.

RESPONSE: I understand your concerns with the whistle on PAT kicks. The current mechanic is for the BJ to have primary responsibility for killing the play. The logic is that when a Referee whistles on the play, it typically would occur prior to the ball breaking the plane of the goal posts, thus technically creating a situation where an inadvertant whistle has sounded.

Several crews have operated with the Referee blowing the whistle on this type of play. The recommendation is to have the BJ handle the task. Simply put, this eliminates the potential for any complaint and ensures compliance with our adopted mechanics. -- Bob

6. Hiding the ball

PLAY: We had a very unusual play during a varsity scrimmage. Player from A takes a hand off from the QB and at some point during the run he hides the ball under his shirt. I know the obvious. We have an unsportsman’s foul. However the runner is tackled after a gain then the foul is accessed is the player also Disqualified? What is the ruling if the runner scores a touchdown?

RULING: The NFHS has ruled on a change made to the 2006 Football Rule Book. The infraction for "hiding the ball under a jersey" was moved in this year's book from 9.4.3 to 9.5.1.i. This editorial change effectively required penalty enforcement to be from the succeeding spot. In the case of a scoring play, this would clearly be unfair to the defense as the touchdown could not be negated. Realizing this potential problem, the NFHS football rules editor, Bob Colgate, has issued the following ruling:

Any penalty for hiding the ball under a jersey shall be enforced as 15 yards from the previous spot. Further, the Referee shall use signal #38 (Personal foul) in reporting the foul.

A follow-on to the above

Does the "hiding the ball" have to be intentional? Why wouldn't penalty enforcement be "all-but-one?"

RESPONSE: Similar to the new spearing rule, officials are not obligated to determine if the act is intentional. However, the verb "hiding" does imply some intent. I would trust your judgment.

Regarding the special enforcement from the previous spot, the NFHS feels the act of hiding the ball could potentially not be seen by the officials, creating a situation where the "spot of the foul" might be difficult to determine. A previous spot enforcement eliminates this potential issue.

7. Substitution during time-out

PLAY: During a time-out, a conference is held by the coach with the players in the middle of the field, can a player go off to the sideline and confer with another coach off the field and then return during the time-out and play the next play? What if during the time-out a substitution is made for that player and then he re-enters during the time-out as a sub for that same player that substituted for him? Does it make a difference if the time-out conference is held directly in front of the bench area? Is there free substitution then? 3-7-3 seems clear, but I'm getting mixed messages from my fellow white hats.

RULING: Rule 3.5.8 states only one type of conference may be used during a single charged time out. If a team chooses to have a coach enter the field and join players in the huddle between the inbounds marks, no player should be permitted to confer with another coach at the sideline. Officials should keep eleven players in the huddle. If the sideline conference is used, there is no limit to the number of players or coaches, effectively allowing “free substitution”. It is true there is the potential for a player to exit the game, confer in the team box with a coach, and re-enter during a charged time out interval.

8: Coin Toss Mechanic

PLAY: I missed the White-hat and Kickoff meeting so you might have covered this one. Can all team players line up at the numbers or hash marks on the field during the toss?

RULING: Rule 3.2.2 states “not more than four captains” are permitted at the coin toss. Other team members are required to be in the team box area or “well away from the vicinity of the coin toss”. On special occasions (i.e. senior night, etc.), some team members may walk out to the nine yard marks. The practice of an entire team going to the nine yard marks should be discouraged. Also, following the toss ceremony, those team members in the team box should remain in that area and allow the captains to return there for final instructions. Teams should not be allowed to “swarm” or congregate in the field of play following the toss. Officials can and should be present to manage this situation.

9. Invalid Fair Catch Signal and Enforcement

PLAY: Is an invalid fair catch signal a PSK or Previous Spot foul?

RULING: Under typical circumstances, this foul would be enforced using PSK. Clearly, if one or more of the requirements of PSK is not met, this could end up being enforced from the previous spot (i.e. K has the ball at end of the down).

10. Faking a knee

PLAY: A12 takes a knee. On the following play, A sets up in the same formation and A12 begins to take a knee, but then before the knee hits the ground, he backs up into the pocket and completes a pass to A82. We couldn’t find anything addressing this situation in the NFHS rule book (although it is covered in NCAA rules). Is this an unsportsmanlike situation? Is there any other rule that applies? Or is this a legal play?

RULING:

The NFHS rule book does not specifically address the play described above. At a minimum, a team which would employ this tactic would not be subscribing to the AIA’s “Pursuing Victory With Honor” code of conduct. Further, as stated in the Unfair Acts section of the 2006 Redding Study Guide (p 104), “a good rule of thumb to follow is if an act appears to be unfair, it probably is contrary to the rules”. Certainly, if a team had announced an intent to “take a knee” prior to executing the fake, and especially if the crew of officials had shared that same information with the opponent, a foul should be called. Rule 9.9 applies and a suggested penalty would be a 15 yard foul from the previous spot, negating any positive gain (or score). In a game circumstance where one team has a distinct point advantage and would be “running up the score”, a foul is warranted. The game of football can and does incorporate deception into legal play (faking a kick, etc.). However, an act which confuses the opponent into inaction or stoppage of play should not be considered legal. In conversation with Gary Whelchel at the AIA, he expressed his concerns for this type of play. His feelings are it should not be tolerated and officials should penalize this act without hesitation.

11. Covering vacated pylon during PAT

PLAY: The football field runs North and South, Home team is on the East and Visiting team on the West. After team A scores a touchdown in the north endzone, they are going for one point. Center hikes the ball, kicker-hold muffs the football, seeing that he can't get the ball down to be kicked, he get up and goes to the home side pylon and try to get into the endzone. On this "busted" play, what is the mechanic to cover a vacated pylon?

RULING: In both 4 and 5 man mechanics, one of the pylons will normally be unattended on a PAT. This is simply a limitation of manpower. The suggestion is to have the Referee hustle as best he can to that sideline. The Line Judge will move also to the same sideline. The Umpire will line up to the “open side” of the formation but must initially have responsibility for the snapper. In a broken play scenario, the Umpire will move first to the goal line and then proceed towards the pylon. I realize this is not a perfect situation. However, it does cover the most probably result well and in the few circumstances where a broken play occurs, all officials must do their best to adapt.

12. Eligibility and the Nine Yard Marks

Please post the discussion we had at this year's white hat meeting on our philosophy on how to handle the 9-yard mark within the last two minutes of the half/game.

The Basics of Eligibility

All offensive players are required by rule to be “inside the nine yard marks” at some point between the time of the ready-for-play signal and the snap. The intent of the rule is to allow the defensive team to be aware of all offensive players and to cover or defend them.

In certain circumstances, it is permitted to allow offensive players to not technically abide by the rule. These cases will be described below. Officials are not encouraged to waive the rule in all cases. As you will read, there are times the intent of the rule is satisfied even though the technical requirements have not been met.

First, incoming substitutes must always comply and come inside the numbers to legally become a player (no sleeper plays allowed).

Continuing players (those who participated in the previous play) are given latitude when the offense does not use a standard huddle AND the defensive team has a player in position to cover that player. The theory is since the defense is aware of this player and has covered him the offensive player has functionally met the standard of compliance. This is especially important when an offense is utilizing a “hurry up” approach and wanting to snap the ball quickly after the ready-for-play signal.

If the defense does not recognize and cover a player who is lined up outside the numbers, officials are encouraged to either have the offensive player move, at least momentarily, inside the numbers or to point this player out to the defense and allow the defense an opportunity to defend him. Offensive teams can easily circumvent any delay by their opponent by having all players meet the technical requirements of the rule.

Good common sense is crucial for all officials in enforcement. The suggestion is to treat this much like minor infractions on the line of scrimmage prior to the snap. Good officials will minimize the number of flags thrown and issue warnings (or preventative officiating) to correct situations where a team did not gain a significant advantage. The same principle should apply here.

13. Overtime New Series after FG attempt

PLAY: Can first touching during a scrimmage kick in overtime have an effect in overtime. ex: 4th and goal from B's 10 yd line during overtime procedure. A attempts a field goal, the kick is blocked and the ball travels past the expanded neutral zone but not into the goal line where it is touched(but not possessed) by B at the 3 yd line, and then is recovered by A at the 5 yd line. Does first touching have an effect or is A's overtime plays ended.

RULING: The offensive team shall be awarded a new series at the point of recovery by A in the example above. On page 84 of the 2006 Rule Book, near the bottom of the page, this specific circumstance is shown under 5-2-1-b.

Clarification: The term “first touching” as shown in the example above is not correct. First touching for scrimmage kicks is defined as “the ball is touched by any kicker in the field of play and beyond the neutral zone before it is touched there by R.” In the example above, the ball is touched by Team B (or Team R) and does not meet the definition.

14. Succeeding Spot after Scrimmage Kick (FG attempt)

(We hope this was submitted by a non-official)
PLAY: The strangest thing happened in our school’s football game. The opposing team attempted a field goal from the 45 yard line and missed. Our team started their next play on their own 20 (not from the 45...as I've seen 1000's of times before). I've been watching football for 20+ years and have never seen such an odd ruling. Is this a case of a ruling body making rules simply to make rules or is there another reason for such a drastic change to the "normal" rules of football used in the other 49 states. Why would anyone ever punt? Can you put a player back to return a missed 95 yard field goal attempt?

RULING:

A field goal attempt is considered a scrimmage kick and follows the same rules as a punt. The play situation fails to state the final position of the ball on the field goal attempt. Since the ball was placed on the 20 following the missed field goal, the likely result was the kicked ball broke the plane of the goal line and landed in the end zone or beyond the end line. In that case, the awarding of a touchback and placement of the ball on the 20 yard line is correct for those states using NFHS rules. This has been the rule for more than thirty years.

The only time a touchback would not be awarded is if the kick did not break the plane of the goal line. Then, the ball would be treated as a punt and the opposing team would start their possession at the yard line where the ball became dead (“first touching” of a scrimmage kick would also apply, if appropriate).

Other levels of football have rules where a missed field goal is handled differently. In the NFL, a missed FG is placed at the spot of the kick. NCAA rules state the ball is placed at the location where last snapped (the “previous spot”). Perhaps those 1000’s of times you have seen before were games played at a level other than high school football. If not, those 1000’s of times were all handled incorrectly.

Responding to the subsequent questions raised….

No change has been made, drastic or otherwise, in more than 30 years. 48 other states practice the same rules as Arizona high school football teams. Texas high schools play under NCAA rules.

Punting is often advantageous as this type of kick commonly is longer and has a better hang time.

A team on defense can, and sometimes does, place a player in position to return a field goal attempt. The rules for returning a missed field goal are identical to those for punts.

15. Basic Spot

PLAY: The QB takes the snap and is scrambling approximately 20 yards behind the LOS. While looking downfield, a B player grabs the QB's helmet with the QB still in possession of the ball. The helmet comes off where the play is whistled dead as the QB is just about to throw the ball. B is penalized 15 yards from the spot that the helmet came off which is the end of the run. Net result is that A loses 5 yards on the play although repeating the down. Rule 10.4.4 defines the basic spot as the spot where the related run ends. Did we enforce the penalty correctly and if correct, should discussion occur to possibly making a rule change at the Federation level to address this inequity to the offense?

RULING:

The penalty was correctly enforced from the end of the run.

While it might seem unfair for Team A to actually lose yardage following penalty enforcement, we must remember the player was downed 20 yards behind the LOS. Team A must bear responsibility for the actions which preceded the foul. The NHSF has reviewed this type of situation and determined it only appears to be inequitable until considering the voluntary decisions and actions by Team A which caused them to be so far behind the original LOS.

16. Player Eligibility (posted 10-8-2006)

PLAY: A question came up about part time varsity players playing in a JV game the following week or a player playing in the JV game then playing a few downs in a varsity game then going down to play JV again?

RULING: The on field officials have no jurisdiction over this type of situation. No NFHS football rules apply here, thereby no rules violation can be considered during the actual game.

The AIA may have concerns and could intervene after the contest has been played if an eligibility violation has taken place. Similar circumstances would include the use of a player who otherwise does not meet eligibility requirements (i.e. academic performance, attending classes).

Game officials should refrain from involvement in making decisions on these matters. Should a game official have awareness of a specific problem or simply have a question, contacting the AIA office is strongly recommended.

17. Untimed Down? (posted 10-12-2006)

PLAY: 1Q, 2&10 @ B 12. The ready for play is blown with :23 remaining in the period, the clock is running. B72 encroaches with :02 seconds showing on the clock. The penalty is enforced to the B7 and the Referee correctly starts the clock on the ready for play. Time expires. Do we have an untimed down?

RULING: Citing rule 3.3.4, the period shall be extended only if the accepted foul occurs during the last timed down of the period. In the play above, the dead foul does not meet the criteria. Proper handling should be enforcement of foul, if accepted, and the clock restarted on the RFP. If time should expire prior to another play being run, the period will be ended without an untimed down.

18. Goal Posts are Out of Bounds (posted 10-17-2006)

PLAY: North HS has the old style "H" goals with two posts each on the endlines. In addition to being somewhat of a safety concern and problematic as they obstruct an official's clear view of the endline, we observed another situation. The pads that wrap around the post extend into the field of play by several inches. Would a receiver who made contact with the pad prior to or simultaneous with a catch be ruled out of bounds? My assumption is no.

RULING: In the case of a receiver touching a pad covering the goal post, regardless of the style of the posts, the receiver would be considered to have contacted something outside the field of play, similar to stepping on a sideline. In a like manner, any receiver touching a pylon along the sideline or the end line, would be considered out of bounds. This is the primary reason those pylons nearest the goal posts are placed beyond the end line.

This is unfortunate for a receiver who makes contact with a pad since he is no longer able to legally participate in the play. However, the rule is in place and is consistent for both teams while on offense. Any defender would not be restricted following contact with a pad.

19. Clear Face Shields - Other (posted 10-17-2006)

PLAY: In the rule book, it is stated that "face shields must be clear"....I presume clear is clear, not fogged or tinted or almost clear...CLEAR. Now moving onto bigger things, when are sunglasses (or glasses that tint automatically in the sun) legal??? The rule clearly says "face shields", but I have always believed that sunglasses also fit into that category, even prescription sunglasses.

I understand that the purpose of the rule is to give officials and EMT's the ability to see the players eyes WITHOUT removing a helmet and presume that is the main, if not only, reason for this rule. If tinted glasses or sunglasses (even prescription) are worn, they also block officials/EMT's/coaches/parents from seeing the players eyes, unless you remove sunglasses...hard to do without also moving the head in some way.

I want a clarification on this please. Although we may not see sunglasses in most of our NFHS games (but we do in Youth Football), it is a situation which may come up and I have always erred on the side of removal....all face shields (including eye protection/eyeglasses) must be clear.

RULING: For eye shields, the rule is simple. Eye shields must be clear or they are not legal. Non prescription glasses fall into the same category.

Those players who wear prescription eyewear fall into another category. We must be mindful some players are unable to have multiple pairs of eyeglasses due to financial reasons. Accordingly, if a player is wearing prescription eyeglasses, that player is permitted to participate. In today's world, a variety of products (and levels of tint) are available. It becomes difficult to rule fairly on those corrective lenses which might have a small amount of tint (or be photo sensitive and able to adjust based on lighting conditions).

Follow-up Question and Response:

Q- Under your discussion about clear visors, you state that sunglasses are not allowed. Please include the rule reference for this statement. It is well known and discussed on many football discussion boards that non-prescription sunglasses are allowed.

A- Non-prescription sunglasses are not permitted for football players in Arizona. The AIA has reviewed the matter and considers this item inappropriate for play. Should any player/coach/team believe a specific medical condition exists where a player requires sunglasses to participate, the AIA would review on a case by case basis. There is precedent where a player has requested and received proper authorization for a tinted device for medical reasons.

Officials can cite Rule 1-5-3 which prohibits any equipment item deemed “dangerous, confusing, or inappropriate”.

The intent is to provide a proper level of safety for players. Similar to a tinted eye shield, sunglasses can limit the abilities of medical personnel to offer timely assistance to an injured player.

20. Snap Requirements (posted 10-18-2006)

PLAY: Is it a requirement that the ball be snapped between the legs of the snapper, or can it be snapped to the side (swinging gate) to someone other than the quarterback in the backfield, in front of the snappers legs?

Can you please provide me the rules or clarification citation on this activity?

RULING: The snapper is not required to have the ball travel betweeen his legs in a legal snap. As you suggest, in a swinging gate formation the snap may go outside of the legs of the snapper. The requirements are spelled out in Rule 2-39-1 and 2-39-2.

21. Detached Equipment (posted 10-24-2006)

PLAY: In a situation when a player enters the game with detached play equipment (mouth piece) and participates (not made a dead ball foul) the rule book states that this is a 5 yard penalty and the signals are twofold. The first signal is unsportsman-like(#27) followed by the equipment signal(#23). This is confusing as you use a 15 yard signal plus a five yard signal (see list of penalites in the back of the rule book, first entry). Is this correct? If this IS correct then who does the unsportsmanlike go against, the player or the coach?

RULING: The intent for Rule 1-5-6 is to penalize any player who intentionally removes mandatory equipment during a play. If an official observes the player without the mouthpiece in place during a live play situation and did not know it was not in place prior to the snap, no foul should be called. See Case Book page 10 (Play 1-5-6 subsection “a”).

If a foul is called, both signals are appropriate (# 27 and # 23) and the proper enforcement is 5 yards. No recording of the Unsportsmanlike Conduct foul is needed as this would not count towards the “total of two” Unsportsmanlike Conduct fouls for the purposes for ejection. Only 15 yard UC fouls are considered in that regard (See Rule Book page 69 near the bottom in the PENALTY section).

It is agreed the use of signal #23 for this foul can be confusing. Officials are encouraged to share penalty information with the coaches and clarify any concerns.

22. Use your whistles !!! (posted 10-24-2006)

PLAY: (Edited by AzFOA) Officials in some areas are trying to do the entire game without using their whistles if possible. They only TELL the players that the PLAY IS OVER! Some of the officials in Prescott are TRYING to do the same thing but I as well as others are afraid that this technique has not been approved by the state and that in a court of law we will be at risk. Can you get a ruling on this situation please?

RULING: While some limited number of plays in a game may end without any whistle (no official actually sees the ball/player being downed), it is NOT RECOMMENDED to have officials work an entire game without the use of a whistle.

Certain plays require a whistle to safely conclude a play. Depending on crowd size, location of players, and other factors in a game, it can jeopardize the safety of players if officials choose to not sound whistles. Consider the circumstance where one player views the end of a play and another does not and continues to participate. When officials actually observe the normal end of a play (ball carrier steps on sideline, passer throws incomplete pass while being hit and ball lands near passer, ball carrier’s forward progress stopped, etc.), a whistle needs to be used.

State Rules Interpreters are not familiar with any directions or guidelines being issued by the AIA or any shared during any training sessions where the practice of not using whistles for an extended period during a game is encouraged.

Our rules interpreters have responded to questions posed during the 2005 season. Here are their responses:

A completed a long pass for a touchdown. During the play, there was a liveball personal foul against B. A's captain declined the
foul and they kicked the try from the 3. Later, A's head coach on my sideline stated to me that we should have tacked the 15 yards on to their kickoff.

RULING: Team A should be given the option of enforcement on the TRY or to decline the foul. In either case, the score will count. If Team A did decline the penalty, no yardage is enforced. The NCAA rule allows the “enforced on kickoff” option but high school rules do not.

'A' comes up to the line for a PAT.....7 players on the line.....only 3 in the backfield.....one is kneeling on the ground to receive the snap as the holder......two are on the outside hip of each end......no one in place to kick the ball.  A penalty was called for not have a kicker in place to kick!   Is this formation OK since the holder could receive the snap and rise to run or pass??

RULING: The formation is legal. The holder, if he has a knee on the ground, will be ruled down when he receives the snap. The down will count and the end of the run will be the spot where the holder received the snap. The holder is only entitled to any special privilege (i.e. rise with the ball or not be ruled down when his knee contacts the ground) if a kicker is in place (Rule 4.2.2.a EXCEPTION).

Game 1: A completed a pass for an 8 yard gain.There were multiple fouls on B, a holding foul at the line and a liveball personal foul facemask during the tackle. A was awarded 10 yards from the previous spot and 15 for the facemask for a 25 yard gain.

RULING: The enforcement you have described is incorrect. Under the multiple fouls rule (Rule 10.2.3), Team A can accept only one of the fouls. The best option for Team A is to take the PF-facemask penalty. This would result in a 15 yard enforcement from the end of the run following the pass, a net gain of 23 yards.

During a kickoff, the kicking team kicked the ball out of bounds untouched by R which results in a free kick infraction charged to the kicking team.  But a
member of the receiving team came off the bench early and ran over the line judge who was sliding down field to watch action behind the spot of the ball going out
of bounds.  Thus we had a foul on the receiving team on a nonplayer who was out of the team box during the play.  He did not affect the play at all.  This was
sideline interference since we had already issued a sideline warning to the receiving team.

RULING: Unsportsmanlike Conduct by a Non-player (Rule 9.8.1.i), if the contact occurred in the field of play (and penalized 15 yards). If contact occurred outside the team box but not in the field of play it is Rule 9.8.1.k and enforced either as a warning, 5 yards, or 15 yards, based on any previous fouls of a similar nature.

questions as to weather rule 9-6-4C forbids the sleeper play. After the ready for a play, a substitute comes in and two players go out to the sideline, one stops
short of the sideline and remains a "player". is this forbidden under 9-6-4C.

RULING: Yes. Rule 9.6.4.c is intended to eliminate the sleeper play.

In the 2005 casebook page 3 situation 1   Situation 1 covers the case of a substitute coming onto the field but never meeting the 9yd mark requirement. the
play is allowed to go and the substitute participates in the play. For purposes of enforcement, the case book enforces the play as an illegal formation. (how is
this different from rule 9-6-3 and its corresponding enforcement?)   my presumption behind this enforcement philosophy is that the substitute never became a "player" and therefore (im guessing because the casebook doesnt say) the offense never had 6 "players" on the line of scrimmage. if this is a correct assessment, that penalty enforcement applies if a substitute never becomes a player (doesnt make the 9yd mark), lines up as a wide flanker (lined up wide as a back) but there are seven players on the line of scrimmage, is it still penalized as illegal formation, illegal substitution, illegal participation, or something else?l

RULING: Your guess is correct. Since the sub never met the requirements to become a player, he cannot be counted as one of the required seven linemen. If the sub lines up as a flanker and the team does have seven players on the line, the foul is for illegal participation. The flag is thrown at the snap and enforced from the previous spot (Rule 9.6.3).

Question - First down or not?

Situation - White going in from the 36, 2nd down and the line to gain is the 15 yard line. 2nd down run ends on the 28 where we have a deadball foul against
Blue (personal foul 15 yard penalty), followed by a deadball foul against White (personal foul 15 yard penalty).

We march off the first deadball foul, Blue foul,(1/2 the distance to the goal) and the ball is now on the 14. Technically they have a first down. Now we march
off the second deadball foul, White foul, and the ball ends up on the 29.

So my question is does White (offense) have a first down at the 29 or 3rd down with the line to gain "still" the original 15 yard line.

RULING:
Because the fouls occurred during a dead ball period, Team A is awarded a first down after enforcement (Rule 5.1.2.a). When the second foul is enforced, taking the succeeding spot to the 29 yard line, the chains will be set and Team A will have 1st and 10 from that point (Rule 5.3.1). The sequence of the dead ball fouls is important, for both the actual enforcement distances and in determining whether Team A is awarded the first down.

Prior Rules Clarifications....

10-29-2005 -- New updates from Jim for the 2005 season........

NEW from Jim Watson and the NFHS regarding the Free Blocking Zone.......

The QB, A1, is outside the free-blocking-zone (FBZ) to receive the snap (Shotgun Formation). At the snap, A2 immediately attempts to block B1, who is in the FBZ, at the knees. Is this a foul for an illegal block?

Additional info: A1 does not delay and shoots out at the snap. Does it matter that A1 is already committed to the block with the contact coming after the ball has left the FBZ? Is the NF rule taken literally--ball in the zone, contact legal--ball outside the zone, contact illegal regardless of the commitment to block by A1.

INTERPRETATION:

If both players have met the restrictions in 2-17 (FBZ) and the block by A1 is not delayed (takes a step back, pulls or delays in any fashion) then the block is considered to have taken place while the ball was in the FBZ. We cannot be that precise as to when the ball has left the zone for these types of close line play.

Nine Yard Marks

After discussion with the other members of the advisory council it was determined that there needed to be some flexibility in the provision of all player meeting the requirements of being within the 9 yard marks momentarily after the ready for play and before the snap.  It was determined that the following will be the philosophy on the calling of this foul

·        All scrimmage plays all A players must meet the 9 yard mark requirement.  EXCEPTION: The last two minutes of each half all A players must be momentarily within the 9 yard mark and then go to their position, HOWEVER please give latitude to receivers who may get inside the mark and then move to a wide out position prior to the Referee blowing the ready-for play.  This will allow the receivers to get to his position and provided he is covered "man up" we will not call this a foul.  This enhancement will make up for the possibility that the Referee blows a late ready for play whistle and will allow the receivers to be on the line ready to go.  There is NO exception for a player entering the field of play in the last two minutes.  He must meet the requirements as always.  Please remember that on Free Kicks we will be assisting but not calling fouls for this violation.  Please call me directly with any questions.

Head Coach

The NFHS has changed several interpretations involving the Head Coach.

·        The Rules Committee did not want to continue to reward a team with the opportunity to request a time-out from the sidelines if the Head Coach was ejected. This does not limit any player from calling a time out.  See Case Book play 3.5.2 SITUATION B, page 23.

·        Sideline Warning; The Head Coach to be more responsible for the “three coaches in the coach’s box rule”.  On the Third and any subsequent infractions resulting in a 15-yard penalty, if the offender cannot be identified, the foul is charge to the Head Coach and counts towards his disqualification. See NFHS/Referee Football Guide 2005, “Keeping a Clean, Quit Sideline, page 11.

Substitution

• On page 2 of the NFHS/Referee Football Guide 2005, the NFHS has issued a correction to “New Rules Simplify Substitution, participation Issues”.  PLAY 1.  B11 mistakenly believes he is his team’s 12^th player and leaves the before the snap on his sideline and enters his team box.  B11 then discovers his error and returns to the field on his team’s side of the neutral zone before the snap.  RULING: REPLACE WITH: The action is legal, but if done intentionally to gain an advantage, it would be an unsportsmanlike foul.  If B11 returns to the field after the snap it is a live ball foul for illegal participation.  Illegal participation is a spot foul enforced under the all-but-one principle. 

Illegal Forward Pass

• The Rulings in the NFHS/Referee Football Guide 2005 on page 5, (continued from page 1) “Multiple Forward Passes No Longer Legal” is incorrect.  If the penalty for an illegal forward pass is accepted, measurement is from the spot of such forward pass.  If the offended team declines the distance penalty, it has the choice of having the down counted at the spot of the illegal incomplete forward pass or having the ball put in play as determined by the action which followed the catch.   See Rule 7-4-3, page 56.

Information from the 2003 season..............

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