Clarification of forward and backward pass

[Bob M.]

REPLY: Just to further clarify---the NF definitions for forward and backward passes are in 2-31-2 and 2-31-5. The NCAA definitions are in 2-19 2a. Note:

1. there is a fundamental difference between the way that each code determines whether a pass is forward or backward, and
2. in both codes, a pass parallel with the line of scrimmage (accepting each code's differences) is considered a backward pass for rule purposes.

[Warrenkicker]

To begin with, ignore the line of scrimmage. That will only determine legality of forward passes. Forward passes travel forward, if even an inch or maybe it is a centimeter in Brazil, while backward passes travel backward or parallel. My way to remember is by saying, "if it isn't forward it is backward." Once I determine direction then I can decide on legality.