Quote:
Originally posted by Patsfan2431
I've had my white hat call an ineligible man down field this weekend. He expalined to me the rule, basically quoting from the rule book, but can any of you guys help me with some real play examples. It would help me to understand how to see when this occurs.
Thanks..
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OK, real world examples. The majority of ineligibles downfield occur in the following circumstances:
1. A screen pass that travels too far. Remember if the pass (or last pass) does not cross the NZ, then ineligibles can be downfield legally. Often on a screen pass, linemen will immediately break downfield to block on a pass that is intended to be completed behind the NZ. The QB may overthrow the intended receiver, the ball crosses the NZ, and you now have a foul for the ineligibles who are downfield.
2. After a long QB scramble. Linemen usually know how long they have to wait before moving downfield. If the QB does not throw when expected and begins to scramble, a lineman may move or drift beyond the ENZ, and when the pass crosses the NZ you now have a foul.
3. An eligible number is "covered." Sometimes the widest man will be on the line when he is supposed to be off the line and he covers up and eligible number, such as in this formation:
81 83 77 51 53 66 67 28
Perhaps here 81 is supposed to be in the backfield and 83 is supposed to be a tight end. 83 does not realize he is covered and he goes downfield. When the pass goes beyond the NZ, you have a foul (and it would be OPI if 83 touches the ball).
Obviously an ineligible downfield foul can occur in other situations, but these are some of the most common times it will happen. Hope this helps.