Expert: Thom Brooks - 10/30/2008

Question
In the Michigan/Michigan St. game a TD was overturned went the replay booth rules that the receiver came down on the pylon.  Apparently, this was wrong because an airborne player that comes down on a pylon is considered out of bounds.

I have seen runners dive for the pylon and touch the pylon with the ball.  Why isn't this considered out of bounds?

Thanks,
Mike

Answer
Mike, hello!

I've answered several inquiries about that play and would like to see the tape on it.  Without seeing the film, I would suggest:

1.  The official blew the call.
2.  The official made a great call.
3.  The official thought the defender pushed or caught the receiver out of bounds.
4.  At least one foot was in bounds.
5.  The Ball crossed the imaginary boundary (that extends beyond the Pylon.
6.  The receiver was not in control of the ball.

When the receiver comes down on the pylon, it depends on what touches first AND where the pylon is located.  When I call games, I see the pylon at different places in or around the end zone.  Maybe the pylon was not lined up properly.

I would like to hear from the officiating crew to get their side of the call.  We talk about any penalties or great plays, but expecially any controversial plays.  The officials likely have the very best, exact answer.  I've seen some bad calls on the field but generally there are legitimate reasons.  I've heard announcers on TV and radio proclaim that something was a bad call, but they did not understand the rule or simply saw it differently than the official that was 5 feet away from the play.  It amazes me how many high school coaches turn to their assistants to ask what the call was for and/or the penalty.  So, the rules do get confusing, even to those who practice in the art of football on a daily basis.  

If the runner dives for the pylon, AND was in bounds, it would be a TD, unless it is deemed the ball went out of bounds before going across the imaginary line of the end zone.  



Take care,


Thom Brooks



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