NFL rules questions

[Robert Goodman]

Originally Posted by tmagan

If, on a field goal/extra point, while the holder is holding the tip of the ball (waiting for the place kicker to kick it), if he is touched by a defender, is the holder down by contact?

"An official shall declare dead ball and the down ended...[w]hen a runner is contacted by a defensive player and he touches the ground with any part of his body except his hands or feet...."

"A player is in possession when he is in firm grip and control of the ball inbounds."

"The runner is an offensive player who is in possession of a live ball."

So the only issue is whether the player holding the ball for a place kick is in firm grip and control of the ball, or whether the ball is considered loose at the time. I think it's in player possession and therefore would be dead under the conditions described.

When a running back runs into the line of scrimmage near the hash marks, the umpire will not take that ball out of play, however, if the running back is taken down near the out of bounds line, the umpire will ask for a new ball for the next down. What is the criteria in terms of when the umpire should take the ball out of play on a running play?

When the umpire thinks it's scuffed enough to give the pitcher an unwarranted advantage.

Sorry, couldn't resist.