Expert: Thom Brooks - 10/28/2009

Question
this question arises from the last play of the Tenn/Ala game.If a field goal attempt is blocked, and the ball bounces beyond the line of scrimmage(defense side), is it a live ball and can the offense pick it up and run it in for a TD? also,if the defense removes his helmet before the ball is ruled dead,what is the penalty? would the kicking team get another kick or is it the other teams ball with a penalty assesed against them? this happened as time expired. THANKS

Answer
Lonny, hello!

The ball can be advanced if it was touched first by a defensive player.  A player is supposed to be flagged for 15 yards for taking the helmet off.  


I was talking on the phone just as that play ended and didn't see all of it.  I did see the player with his helmet off.  If he took it off during the play, a flag would have assessed the penalty but the team that recovered would have maintained possession.  It would depend on when the helmet was taken off.  


I have attached the NCAA rules for you to inspect.  Alabama blocked some important kicks that made the difference in that game.  




Take Care,

Thom Brooks
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REFEREE, the Magazine for Sports Officials


National Association of Sports Officials