[Bob M.]

REPLY: One of the principles that the NFL operates under is "no cheap turnovers." If a player appears to intercept a pass, he better demonstrate full possession and control before losing possession. Otherwise, he'll not be given the interception. Likewise for a receiver who appears to catch a pass and gets hit immediately afterwards and loses possession. This will also inevitably be ruled an incomplete pass unless the official feels that the receiver had demonstrated full control and possession of the pass prior to the hit.