[waltjp]

The neutral zone may be expanded to allow for normal line play. For example, you wouldn't have an ineligible down field foul if the offensive lineman is blocking a defender within 2 yards of the line of scrimmage. It also applies to low scrimmage kicks that are touched by R when attempting to block the kick.

Rule 2-28 Neutral Zone

ART. 1 . . . The neutral zone is the space between the two free-kick lines during a free-kick down and between the two scrimmage lines during a scrimmage down. For a free-kick down, the neutral zone is 10 yards wide and for a scrimmage down it is as wide as the length of the football. It is established when the ball is marked ready for play.

ART. 2 . . . The neutral zone may be expanded following the snap up to a maximum of 2 yards behind the defensive line of scrimmage, in the field of play, during any scrimmage down.