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College Football/Kickoffs
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Question
At my morning coffee table, I made the statement that a kickoff , either opening the game or following a score, could be fair caught. I understand an onsides kick is different because it is usually wham-bam because there is usually not a chance to give the fair catch signal. However, I think I've seen a fair catch signal called when the ball went high and landed farther back from the line. I had a table full of old men jump all over me and I have a lunch bet on this. Thanks.
Charles,
A receiver may fair catch any Free Kick (Kick off) or Scrimmage Kick (Punt or place kick) so long as the ball is not grounded first. If the ball is in the air and has not touched the ground it may be Free Caught.
Mamy times on onside kicks the kicker will kick the ball into the ground to cause it to bounce high into the air. These types of kicks may not be free caught.
As long as the ball (not grounded) is in flight a fair catch signal can be given.
I hope this answers your question
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