[mbyron]

Originally Posted by CT1

Agree it's a TD. But how do you square your sideline explanation with the new definition of "catch", and the Comments to the rules changes?

I believe what I'm saying is consistent with the new definition and comments, the latter of which do not address forward progress. A new case play, however, does.

Originally Posted by 2012 NFHS Football Case Book

*4.3.3 SITUATION B:

A has third down and seven yards to gain at B's 30. A1 leaps near the sideline to attempt to catch a pass near B's 30-yard line. A1 is: (a) airborne trying to make the catch and is knocked backwards by B2 attempting to make the tackle and A1 lands outside the sideline at B's 32 or (b) airborne when he controls the ball attempting to complete the catch and is carried off the field by B2 landing out of bounds.

RULING: In (a), the pass is incomplete and the clock should start on the snap. In (b), the covering official must determine if forward progress was stopped in the field of play. If the covering official determines that progress was stopped in the field of play, it is a catch and the clock should not stop. If stopped inadvertently by the covering official, the clock should be restarted on the ready for play. If progress was not determined to be stopped in the field of play, the pass is incomplete and the clock shall be stopped, to be restarted on the snap. (2-15-1, 2; 4-3-2)

For the OP, I also found this new case play:

Originally Posted by 2012 NFHS Football Case Book

*7.5.4 SITUATION G:

A8, in B’s end zone, leaps in the air to catch a pass and is contacted by B2 forcing A8 to come down inbounds on B’s 1-yard line where he is downed.

RULING: Touchdown, since A8’s forward progress was stopped over B’s end zone by B2’s contact. Even though the catch was not made until A8 came down inbounds, his forward progress was stopped by B2’s contact resulting in A *possessing the live ball in its opponent’s end zone, hence, a touchdown.