Expert: Thom Brooks - 12/3/2009

Question
Hi,

the ball carrier is hit by a defender, stopping the ball carrier, but both stay on their feet. they are pushing each other, chopping their feet, and they are headed for the sideline, the ball carrier is no longer going forward, but still trying to escape from the tackle. another defender comes and takes the ball out of the hands of the carrier and is headed for the six points. is this a fumble? or the ball is dead because of forward progress has already stopped?

Answer
Balint, hello!


When the Official determines that Forward Progress is stopped, the play is dead.  Many believe the play is still alive until the whistle blows, but that is not accurate.  So, in your scenario, the play could have been called dead when the Forward Progress was determined.  It's a fine milli-second for the Official to decide.
If I could see the play, I could give you my call.  That kind of play can be called either way.  If the defender stole the ball before the runner was determined to be stopped, then the TD could have counted.  Many times the defender grabs the ball, EVEN when he knows the play is dead, hoping the Officials will give them the call.  


Take care,


Thom Brooks