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This is a really good discussion topic - think I'll steal it for our association meeting this week.
My initial thoughts - if you don't know for sure, go with the out-of-bounds. I base this on two things I learned in a clinic this year - don't complicate the game and don't be hero (thanks SWOA of Madison, Wisconsin for a great clinic).
The touchback is a huge call - too huge to make if you don't know for sure.
Oh, and just to be clear - here are some examples of the two theories stated above:
Don't complicate the game - on a pass, there is a catch, a hit and a drop. Is it a fumble or incomplete pass? Don't complicate the game - rule it incomplete.
Don't be a hero - punt coming down near the goal line, the receiver is standing on the goal line and signals for a fair catch. Did the ball break the plane? Don't be a "hero" and mark the ball on the six inch line - call it a touchback.
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