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Football Officiating => National Federation Discussion => Topic started by: Farooq on October 08, 2020, 03:33:09 AM

Title: Pushing a teammate ball-carrier backward
Post by: Farooq on October 08, 2020, 03:33:09 AM
As far as I know it is forbidden for offense to push a ball-carrier for his forward progress in NFHS
Quote
NFHS Rule 9-1 states: “An offensive player shall not push, pull or lift the runner to assist
his forward progress.”

Imagine however such situation. Offensive lineman A65 pushes a ball-carrier A33 aside backward or  parallel towards side-line in attempt to protect him from defender's tackling. He doesnt assist forward progress in this situation and tries to push away teammate from imminent threat.
I encountered this case once. Would it be legal in NFHS?
Title: Re: Pushing a teammate ball-carrier backward
Post by: SCHSref on October 08, 2020, 01:54:06 PM
As far as I know it is forbidden for offense to push a ball-carrier for his forward progress in NFHS
Imagine however such situation. Offensive lineman A65 pushes a ball-carrier A33 aside backward or  parallel towards side-line in attempt to protect him from defender's tackling. He doesnt assist forward progress in this situation and tries to push away teammate from imminent threat.
I encountered this case once. Would it be legal in NFHS?

Not sure why it wouldn't unless his initial charge is laterally
Title: Re: Pushing a teammate ball-carrier backward
Post by: Farooq on October 08, 2020, 02:16:57 PM
I agree, but I decided to ask you, gentlemen. Officials who have expertise and knowledge in NFHS.
I can only guess about NFHS interpretation of this situation since in our rulebook pushing BC is always legal.
Title: Re: Pushing a teammate ball-carrier backward
Post by: AlUpstateNY on October 08, 2020, 06:29:42 PM
I agree, but I decided to ask you, gentlemen. Officials who have expertise and knowledge in NFHS.
I can only guess about NFHS interpretation of this situation since in our rulebook pushing BC is always legal.

When in doubt, check the rule itself.  NFHS 9-1 ("Helping the Runner") :An offensive player shall not push, pull or lift the runner to assist his FOWARD progress.".