offsides?

c it first · #1 (**permalink**) Mon Dec 08, 2003, 08:00am

I had a friendly debate with another official. Kicking team needs to have a member hold the ball on the kicking tee. Typically the holder is on one knee and uses a finger to hold the ball in place. If his knee is in front of the ball is this legal ? I say no because the kicking team gains no advantage.

Tundra Ref · #2 (**permalink**) Mon Dec 08, 2003, 09:04am

I would say yes, it is legal, because the kicking team gains no advantage.

c it first · #3 (**permalink**) Mon Dec 08, 2003, 10:07am

If his knee is in front of the ball is this legal ? I say no because the kicking team gains no advantage.

oops , I meant to say yes. I hate when I make typo's. I agree with Tundra.

BktBallRef · #4 (**permalink**) Mon Dec 08, 2003, 12:00pm

It's not encroachment (not offsides) because the rule allows the holder and/or the kicker to be in the neutral zone.

Patton · #5 (**permalink**) Mon Dec 08, 2003, 12:58pm

Rule 6 Kicking the Ball and Fair Catch
SECTION 1 THE KICKOFF AND OTHER FREE KICKS
ART. 3 . . . After the ball is ready for play and until it is kicked, no player, other than the kicker and the holder for a place kick may be beyond his free-kick line.

Bob M. · #6 (**permalink**) Mon Dec 08, 2003, 02:31pm

Quote:

Originally posted by Patton
Rule 6 Kicking the Ball and Fair Catch
SECTION 1 THE KICKOFF AND OTHER FREE KICKS
ART. 3 . . . After the ball is ready for play and until it is kicked, no player, other than the kicker and the holder for a place kick may be beyond his free-kick line.

REPLY: Same is true for NCAA (NCAA 6-1-2b)