coach physically assists runner
 

NFHS Rule (3-5-4) states that a coach may not physically assist a runner during playing action. The penalty for this states: "The runner is out and the ball is in play". Is this considered a delayed dead ball?

The rule you quote says the ball remains "in play" (ie: live).

The other place this rule is addressed is 8-6-4, which notes that "the ball is in play and the (assisted) runner is out".

The infraction of assisting a runner isn't listed under Rule 5, which covers all dead ball and delayed dead ball situations, nor does it appear in either the dead ball or delayed dead ball tables.

A reasonable person could conclude from those rules and tables that NFHS does not consider this to be a delayed dead ball situation. That is, until you read their Case Book...

Case Plays 3.5.4 A & C both instruct the umpire to "declare a dead ball once the play has been completed".

Isn't that exactly how a delayed dead ball works? :confused:

Maybe the cas play ruling is anticipating a visit with the OC for an explanation of the call :D