Fumble question

[assignmentmaker]

Originally posted by Snaqwells
No call is the only appropriate call here. The rule book defines fumble as a loss of control. To lose control implies you had gained control.
Look at football for example. What you describe as a legitimate fumble is more accurately defined as a "muff" in football. The difference is huge on punt returns. If a player fumbles the ball (had control and lost it), the defense is allowed to pick it up and run with it. If he muffs the punt (loses it before catching it), the defense can recover but not advance the ball.
The NFHS rule book says it's legal for a player, in all circumstances, to fumble a ball and retrieve it. You can't split hairs to come up with a reason to call it.

What, if anything, is the difference between a fumble (not 'loss of control' but 'accidental loss of control')and a bad play?