Tackling by Non-player

[JugglingReferee]

Originally Posted by RookieDude

What is the penalty for a Non-player/Substitute player to run on the field and tackle a player running for a TD.

Example: What would have happened if a non-player or suited up player had run on the field and stopped Harrison from making that interception return right before the half?

Do you AWARD the TD on the officials judgement on the possibility he would have made the TD or not?

Pro/College/H.S. interp please.

CANADIAN RULING:

Interference by an Unauthorized Person (1-13-4):

If the Referee believes that the touchdown would have been scored, a touchdown shall be awarded.

If not, the non-offending team gets:

• half the distance from PLS or PBD (PF if during a forward pass), AND
• 3 downs unless there's a score or turnover