Roughing the Kicker or a fumble?

JamesBond · #1 (**permalink**) Tue Oct 14, 2003, 12:51pm

In a scrimmage kick formation, K1 receives the snap and attempt to punt. Unfortunately his foot misses the ball. While the ball and his kicking leg are falling, R1 drills him. Is it RTK or a fumble? Your opinions are greatly anticipated.

007

mikesears · #2 (**permalink**) Tue Oct 14, 2003, 01:06pm

Until foot meets ball, he is a runner and you can't have RTP.

JamesBond · #3 (**permalink**) Tue Oct 14, 2003, 02:17pm

Mike,
Can you give me a rule or case that states that?
I mean he was truly trying to kick the ball. He dropped it toward his foot and moved his leg to kick it. His leg was in the air when it he was hit. The R player didn't touch the ball.
The ruling on the field was a fumble, but it doesn't seem right to me. Thanks for the insight
James

[Edited by JamesBond on Oct 14th, 2003 at 02:34 PM]

Bob M. · #4 (**permalink**) Tue Oct 14, 2003, 02:23pm

REPLY: First, begin with the definition of a "kicker" (NF 2-30-8. Then apply NF 9-4-4 which clearly defines 'roughing' as contact with the kicker (a defined term) or the holder (also defined in 2-30). If this were not the case, what would the defense be able to do if the punter just held onto the ball?