[cowbyfan1]

Originally posted by Daryl H. Long

These statements are very important. An additional statement is K may only advance a kick if they recover it behind the neutral zone. Beyond they may only receover. Also, remember if K is first to touch a ball still in flight you could have either first touching or fair catch interference.


Let's expand on it to determine next down and possession. (Application of Rule 5-1 Articles 1-6)

1. Kick does not cross expanded NZ. Touching by either team has no consequence.

If K recovers the kick behind the neutral zone it may recover and advance. If they advance beyond the line to gain then K retains possession '1st and 10' at dead ball spot.
If K does not reach line to gain then R possession '1st and 10' at dead ball spot.

If R recovers it may advance and it will be R possession '1st and 10 at dead ball spot.

2. Kick crosses the expanded neutral zone. Touching beyond becomes a factor.

If K is first to touch a kick beyond the expanded neutral zone even if R subsequently touches it R may retain possession '1st and 10' at the spot of 1st touching OR the spot where the ball became dead in either K's or R's possession. This is true even if K recovers loose ball behind NZ and advances beyond their line to gain.

If R is first to touch the ball beyond the exp. NZ then the next down will be '1st and 10' for the team in possession at the end of the down. This is true even if K is in final possession behind their line to gain.

Fianlly, if the above scenarios are complicated by a FOUL, then Rule 5-2 is must reading.
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Well alright Daryl!! You got this one! Keep reading those books!