Q#1: Kicking game question

[Bob M.]

REPLY: I agree that this has been a lively and professional discussion where an honest disagreement exists.

There is no specific reference in the 2004 Federation rule book or case book that explicitly says that 'first touching' is illegal. However, 2-16-6 makes note of first touching as one of the "...Game situations which produce results somewhat similar to penalties, but which are not classed as fouls." Does that mean they're not illegal just because they're not called "fouls?" Personally, I don't think so.

Interestingly, the NCAA rule book uses a slightly different wording. They say that a player on the kicking team may "...During a scrimmage kick play or a free kick play, when he is eligible to touch the ball, legally use his hand(s) and/or arm(s) to push an opponent in an attempt to reach a loose ball."

In my opinion, this is a much clearer way of stating it, and I believe that the intention of both rule codes is the same.