[RickW]

I have no idea about changes in NFL scoring rules, but I did notice an incorrect statement you made regarding the direction of the ball as it is fumbled. Now I officiate under NCAA rules and not NFL rules, so there may be some slight discrepancies but I doubt it.

When a defender hits the QB and the ball comes out, the officials on the field (usually the Referee) must be able to rule on movement of the QB's arm, not on the direction that the ball takes when it leaves his possession. The fact that a ball travels forward when a player loses possession in no way is any indication that a pass has been attempted. Think about when a runner loses possession downfield. Just because the ball travels forward before hitting the ground doesn't mean that an incomplete pass has occurred.

In order to have "pass" under NCAA rules, the QB must begin an intentional forward motion of his arm.