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Football question

I'm talking about football, not soccer

Is it a foul or something to down (tackle) a player that is catching the ball in mid-air? Like grab his legs or straight up just tackle him?

Like this: Qb throws the ball - Ball's in mid air - Qb's teammate jumps to catch the ball - the defending team tackles the catcher in mid air before he touches the ball

December 23, 2014

6 Comments • Newest first

LampShadow

If the defender makes excessive contact before the receiver catches the ball, it's pass interference. In college it's a 15 yard penalty and in pro the ball is placed at the spot of the foul, but it's considered an automatic first down in both. In pro, if pass interference occurs in the end zone then the ball is placed at the 1 yard line.

A defender also can't blindside a receiver immediately after he catches the ball. This is called hitting a defenseless receiver and counts as a 15 yard penalty and automatic first down in both college and pro.

Another similar penalty is defensive holding, which occurs when the defender grabs the receiver and holds him back regardless of whether or not the ball is thrown at him. Defensive holding is a 5 yard penalty and an automatic first down in both college and pro.

And I'm pretty sure high school rules are similar to college ones

Reply December 23, 2014
nattl532

if he juggles no, if he hasnt touched it, yes

Reply December 23, 2014
calebheads

Before he touches the ball it's pass interference. After he touches, it's legal.

Reply December 23, 2014
lZaktsul

[quote=Killeem]go cowboys[/quote]

you like football too? ? ? Angela... *deep stare*

Reply December 23, 2014
SpiritBag

That would be pass interference

Reply December 23, 2014
Killeem

go cowboys

Reply December 23, 2014