[nvfoa15]

I'm like a one armed paper hanger here without my rule book but let me carry on:

Rule 5-1-1:
Each awarded first down starts a new series of first downs.
I translated this as "When a team obtains a first down, it begins a new set of four downs.

Rule 5-1-2:
A new series (see 5-1-1) is awarded as follows:
After a first,second, or third down, a new series of downs shall be awarded ONLY AFTER considering the effect of any act during the down and any dead ball foul.

Rule 5-1-1 is very staight forward, Team A, in the sample play, obtained (was awarded)a first down. They advanced the ball beyond the LTG. Rule 5-1-2 seems to talk about plays in which A does NOT reach the LTG during the play. (Why fourth down is not included I don't know!) In which case the acceptance or declination of any live or dead ball penalties may or may not result in a first down (new series).

Suppose that B commited the DB foul, we have no problem advancing the ball 15 yards, 1/10 for A. I don't see any difference in enforcement if A commits the foul (1/10 A 15 yards behind the basic spot).

This play, prior to 1997, would have been enforced the same as today. The only difference is that prior to '97 it would be 1/25; today it is 1/10.

I agree with you Mike that the language of the rule is suspect (in particular the word "any" refering to dead ball fouls). I have no doubt, however, that educated, experienced officials will enforce this siuation correctly despite the vague rule wording.