[Jim S]

Yes, and it isn't you. There is no such thing as a 'lateral'. There are forward and backward passes. If a pass is not forward, it is backward.
A pass direction is indicated by the initial direction of the ball, not where a receiver is or what direction the passer is looking, or anything else. If the ball goes forward out of the passer's hand it's a forward pass. Doesn't matter what the final direction, because of wind, bats, or anything else. Same with the initial direction being backwards.
On this type of pass the normal mechanic is that the side guy on the side to which the pass thrown is responcible for the call of forward or backward. (If the QB takes sevral steps, then the call belongs to the Referee).
This is done so that the call is made by the person BEST in position to make the call. Anyone else does not have the needed angle.


[Edited by Jim S on Sep 19th, 2004 at 07:41 PM]