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Give it up Joe. There was no need for conclusive evidence. It's the rule. Here are explanations from retired NFL ref Jerry Markbreit:
"If you have an NFL rule book, this rule appears on page 12, rule 3, section 21, article 2, note 1. When an offensive player is holding the ball in order to throw a forward pass, any intentional forward movement of his arm starts the pass. If a defensive player contacts the passer or the ball after forward movement begins and the ball leaves the passer's hand, a forward pass is ruled, regardless of where the ball strikes the ground or a player."
"You are correct. It doesn't matter what the intention of the quarterback is, as long as his arm is moving forward and he loses the ball. I have outlined this specific rule in my first answer. However, the pump fake is a horse of a different color. Here is the rule regarding "tucks" and the pump fake:
"When an offensive player is holding the ball in order to throw a forward pass, any intentional forward movement of his arm starts a forward pass, even if the player loses possession of the ball as he is attempting to tuck it back toward his body. If the player has tucked the ball into his body and then loses possession, it is a fumble. If the player loses possession of the ball while attempting to re-cock his arm, it is a fumble. If you have both hands solidly on the ball in front of your body, this is also considered a tuck position. But Brady did not establish this position."
When all else fails, read the rule.
Bob
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