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You are here: Experts > Sports > Football > College Football > Roughing the Kicker Penalties
Expert: Thom Brooks - 10/24/2009
Question
In a recent high school football game in Texas, the snapper snapped the ball past the punter. The punter chased and scooped up the ball. He took a few side steps and then kicked the ball and was roughed by the opposing team. Is it still a "roughing the kicker" penalty since the ball hit the ground? I always thought that once the ball hits the ground that the punter is "fair game" to be hit. Can you clarify this?
Answer
Jerry, hello!
If the punter became a runner by moving several steps, he is free to be blocked and tackled. Usually, the officials look at 5 yards as still being protected. But, please review the NFHS rule # 9-4-5 in regards to if the defensive player could have avoided the contact. It's a fine line but the official will rule if the punter was attempting to run or kick.
Take care,
Thom Brooks
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