Numbering Restrictions - Backfield

[john_faz]

Can #52 line up in the back field and go out for a pass under Federation rules? I know there are numbering restrictions for linemen but the number guidelines in the rulebook are listed as recommendations. Any guidance would be helpful.

[bigjohn]

he can line up in the backfield but he is not wearing an eligible number and can not catch a forward pass. He can carry the ball and catch a backwards pass.

[bbcof83]

Originally Posted by bigjohn

he can line up in the backfield but he is not wearing an eligible number and can not catch a forward pass. He can carry the ball and catch a backwards pass.

Would the penalty be illegal touching? 5 yards?

[kdf5]

Originally Posted by bbcof83

Would the penalty be illegal touching? 5 yards?

Yes, enforced under the ABO.

[john_faz]

I called illegal touching but I wasn't too sure I was right. The defense declined the penalty and we just moved on. I am glad I got it right in retrospect.

Could it also be ineligible downfield on a pass if he didn't touch the ball?

[KWH]

Ineligible Downfield - See Rules Book 7-5-12 & CASEBOOK 7.5.12 SITUATION A

Illegal Touching - See Rules Book 7-5-13 & CASEBOOK 7.5.13 SITUATION A

[Niner]

Originally Posted by john_faz

I called illegal touching but I wasn't too sure I was right. The defense declined the penalty and we just moved on. I am glad I got it right in retrospect.

Could it also be ineligible downfield on a pass if he didn't touch the ball?

Why would the defense decline the penalty? It is also loss of down.

[KWH]

Originally Posted by john_faz

I called illegal touching but I wasn't too sure I was right. The defense declined the penalty and we just moved on. I am glad I got it right in retrospect.

Could it also be ineligible downfield on a pass if he didn't touch the ball?

john_faz;

With all due respect...

In retrospect, if the ineligible did indeed "touch" the pass, and, you then allowed the defense to decline the penalty, (which it sounds like you may not of informed them it includes a loss of down), it is highly likely, you got it wrong!