MANITOBA FLAG FOOTBALL LEAGUE

8-Man RULE BOOK


Introduction
The present document contains all the rules and regulations of the game of flag football for teams associated with “The Manitoba Flag Football League” (MFFL).
Any comments or suggestions regarding this document may be forwarded to Jordan Blahnik at the following email address: MFFL@live.ca.
Philosophy of the game

The game of flag football is played by passing and running the ball without contact. In the MFFL, we promote a skilful defensive and offensive game and, like no other league around, we promote safe blocking. The officials who regulate the game have to maximize the safety of the players by minimizing the intensity of contact. Players may engage in “legal” voluntary contact, but must make an effort to keep the contact clean. Coaches and team managers must control the level of aggressiveness displayed by their players and promote the values of respecting the opponent and the rules. The officials have to be fair but firm and non-negotiable on the application of the rules, especially in the case of over aggressiveness and roughing situations.



CHAPTER 1: THE GAME
1.1 Overview
In flag football, two teams play against each other on a field composed of an end zone on each end. There are 8-men on the field for both teams. The winning team is the one that scores the most points. Teams may score points by scoring a touchdown (6 points), by scoring a safety (2 points), by completing a convert (1 or 2 points), by kicking a single (1 point), or if the other team shows up late (3 points every 5 minutes – max. 9 points before the other team has to forfeit).

The game starts with a kick-off (one team kicks the ball to the opposing team). The receiving team becomes the offensive team and the kicking team becomes the defensive team.

The offensive team tries to bring the ball to the opponent’s end zone by passing or running it. The offensive team has 3 downs (attempts) to gain 10 yards. If they succeed, the offensive team has earned a 1st down and gets another set of 3 downs to move the ball downfield. If they don’t score or get a 1st down, the offensive team loses possession of the ball and becomes the defensive team.

If the offensive team thinks they will not get a 1st down, they can decide to give the ball back to the opponent by Punting (kicking) the ball.

The defensive team on the field tries to prevent the offense from scoring or getting a first down. To do so, they have to stop the ball carrier by flagging the opponent, by knocking down a pass before it is completed, or by intercepting the ball.

When the defensive team succeeds in preventing the offense from getting a first down, the teams exchange roles on the field. Offense becomes defence and vice versa.

A defensive team can also score points. If the offensive team is stopped in its own end zone, the defence scores a safety (2 pts). If the defensive team intercepts a pass and runs the ball back to the opponent’s end zone, they score a touchdown. The defence may also return the convert for 1 or 2 points (whichever the offense is going for).

The team that scores a touchdown gets an extra down to try to score a convert: they can choose to try and score either 1 (5 yards away) or 2 points (10 yards away) on a convert.
After the convert, play resumes with a kick-off by the scoring team (now the defensive team) who will try to prevent the opponent from scoring or getting a 1st down during their ball possession.

1.2 Length of Game
The game is divided into four 15-minute quarters, as well as one 5 minute half-time. The play clock is 25 seconds long between downs. The play clock starts once the bags are set and the ref blows the whistle. On a kick-off, you have 25 seconds from the refs whistle.

After 12 minutes of play in the 2nd and 4th quarters (not counting time-outs), the referee informs both teams that 3 minutes remain (three minute warning).

The time clock starts on the referee’s whistle at the beginning of play in each quarter. The time clock runs continuously (“running time”) except during time-outs and the last 3 minutes of play. In the last 3 minutes of play, the clock stops if the ball is incomplete, spiked or out of bounds. Otherwise, the time clock can only be stopped and restarted on the head referee’s signal.

If the clock hits zero prior to the snap of the ball, the play will be allowed to go off (i.e. last play of the quarter/half). If the clock runs out during a play, the quarter or half will be over once the play ends.

If a touchdown is scored after the clock has hit zero – An extra point (convert) attempt is allowed.
The head referee can stop the game if he or she feels that the security of the players is compromised.
Overtime
When the score is tied at the end of the game, overtime procedures are as follows:
• A 3-minute rest period is allowed at the end of the 4th quarter;
• Team captains will get together for a pre-overtime coin toss to determine who will go first or second.
• Each team will be playing from the side of the field that the referee chooses. It is the referee’s responsibility to pick the most adequate spot (i.e., less wind, less wear and tear etc.).
• Each team has 3 attempts to score a 1 or 2 point convert, at their discretion.
• At the end of the 3 attempts, the team with the most points wins.
If the score is still tied after the 3 convert attempts have been played on each side, there will be a 1-minute rest period. Each team will then have another convert attempt (in the same order) until one team outscores the other.

1.3 Changing Sides
At the end of every quarter, the two teams change sides on the field. The team in possession of the ball will then restart the next play at a point corresponding exactly to the point where the ball became dead at the opposite end of the field, and in exactly the same manner as if the play had not been interrupted by the end of the previous quarter.

1.4 Half Time
At the end of the 1st half (2nd quarter), a 5-minute rest period is allowed. With the approval of the captains on both teams and the head referee, the length of the half time period can be modified.

1.5 Pre-Game Coin Toss
Before the beginning of the game, the referee gathers the captains of both teams for the pre-game coin toss. The home team will choose heads or tails. The home team is predetermined by the schedule.
During playoffs, the team with the best record is considered the home team.
The captain of the team winning the coin toss shall declare whether he wishes to have first choice at the start of the first half, or defer to the second half. The captain of the team having first choice at the start of the first half shall choose one of the following three options: receiving the kick-off, kicking off, or choosing the side of the field to defend. The captain of the other team is able to choose from one of the remaining two options. If a team chooses to kick-off or to receive the ball, the other team gets to choose the side of the field to defend, and vice versa. At the start of the 2nd half, the procedure shall be reversed.

Prior to this, both teams will have their equipment checked by the officiating crew. A player may not enter the field of play without having their equipment checked.

1.6 Late Start
The game shall start promptly at the time scheduled. However, should the game not start on time, the penalties are noted below:
If a team does not have the minimum amount of players required to play at the start of the game (6 players), that team will be penalized for delay of game by the other (“waiting”) team scoring 3 points for the first second the game does not start as scheduled and then at 5 minutes and 10 minutes that the other team is late. The maximum number of points that can be scored is 9 (14 minutes) and then the (“late”) team must forfeit the game (after 15 minutes). If neither team has the minimum 6 players by the end of the 15 minute grace period, both teams lose by forfeit.

Teams that forfeit will be charged $50 (first offense) - to be paid before they can play their next game. A second offense will cost $100 and a third offense will result in a dismissal from the league.
Forfeiting teams will also lose 2 points (in the standings) per forfeit!

1.7 Downs
To get a 1st down, the offensive team has 3 downs (plays) to gain 10 yards.

1.8 First Down
Only the referee can establish and confirm that the offensive team has gained a 1st down. We don’t have measuring sticks in the MFFL, so it’s to the referee and linesman’s discretion. The ball is placed at the point where the ball holder’s hips were when flagged. This means you cannot stretch the ball over the LOS to gain a first down or over the goal line to score a TD; your hips must be completely across the line.

1.9 Time-Outs
Team time-outs:
Each team is entitled to two time-outs in each half of the game. Each time-out is 60 seconds long. The referee will indicate when 10 seconds are left in the time-out. Once the time-out has elapsed, all offensive players must return to their huddle, otherwise an offensive procedure may be called as a penalty (5 yards).

Only a referee may call a time-out on the field. Only captains may request a time-out, but only when the play has been whistled dead. ***Please note that unused time-outs from the first half do NOT carry over to the second half.

Injury time-outs:
Any official can call a time-out when player injury occurs on the field. The injured player must leave the field for at least one play, unless the team requests a team time-out. The referee has the authority to delay the game for as long as is needed to allow the player to be taken off the field. If the team delays the game by taking an unjustified amount of time to treat the injury, a penalty for delay of game will be called (10 yards without options).

Official’s time-outs:
Only the referee can call an official’s time-out. The referee may call an official’s time-out for an injury on the field, when a team captain requests a time-out for equipment problems, security concerns, delay of game, or for any other reason.


CHAPTER 2: FIELD AND EQUIPMENT
2.1 The Field

The rectangular field is bounded by 2 sidelines and 2 back lines at the back of the end zones. These lines are not part of the field. They are considered out of bounds.
The end zone is bounded by the sidelines, the back line, and the goal line.
The goal line is parallel to the back line and runs the field from sideline to sideline. It is part of the end zone.

The playing field is bounded by the sidelines and the goal lines.

There are two series of hash marks, parallel to the sidelines and running the field from one goal line to the other. The ball must always be snapped on a harsh mark should the play end outside one of the harsh marks. If the play finishes clearly between the two hash marks, the ref will place the ball in between the harsh marks where the play ended. PLEASE NOTE THAT ALL CONVERTS ARE FROM THE MIDDLE OF THE FIELD.
The following lines are parallel to the back lines, running from one sideline to the other, on either side of the midfield line:
• Kick-off line to start a half and after a touchdown (40 yard line);
• Kick-off line used after a safety (20 yard line);
• Starting line of scrimmage after an interception inside the end zone (10 yard line);
• Convert line for 2 points (10 yard line);
• Convert line for 1 point (5 yard line).
• ***Buhler recreation park has lines marked every 10 yards down the field.

2.2 Dimensions & Measurements
All measurements are in yards and taken from the inside of the lines.
MFFL Field
Field width 65
Length of playing field 100
Length of end zone 15
Hash marks (from sideline) at 20
Midfield line At the 50
Ball possession on a kick-off out of bounds 40 yard line
Kick-off line to start a half and after a touchdown 40 yard line
Line used to start after a single point 30 yard line
Kick-off line used after a safety 20 yard line
Starting line of scrimmage after an interception inside the end zone At the 10
Convert line for 2 pts At the 10
Convert line for 1 pt At the 5

2.3 Out of Bounds
Sidelines and back lines are out of bounds, just like the ground outside these lines.
Any player (or object) touching these lines (sidelines or back lines) or the ground outside them is considered to be out of bounds. You only need one foot in bounds when catching a ball.
Any player or object touching a person and/or object already out of bounds is considered to be out of bounds.

2.4 Goal Posts
Goal posts do not play a role in the MFFL, as we play out of Buhler Recreation Park which has transferrable soccer nets.

2.5 Team Bench
The team benches are 20 yards in length and are situated 10 yards away from the midfield line.
Both team benches have to be on the same side of the field.

2.6 The Ball
Teams may each use their own football during the game or agree to use the same one.
The Ball must be an official NFL, CIS, or CFL sized ball. The receiving team may choose to have their own ball kicked to them.

It is not permitted to modify the surface of the football. The official must replace a football that has been modified. The decision of the official shall be final as to the suitability of the ball. After a first warning, the official will apply a misconduct penalty of 10 yards without options at the point where the ball was whistled dead.

2.7 The Kicking Tee *
A kicking tee may be used but it is the responsibility of the kicking team to remove it from the field as soon as they can. If the kicking tee is not removed by the beginning of the following play, the kicking team will be penalized 10 yards.

2.8 Dangerous Equipment
No player shall wear equipment of any kind which may injure an opponent. Braces, prosthetics, and casts must be covered so they cannot injure any player on the field. Metal studs and sharpened cleats are prohibited. The head official will warn any players at fault; if they don’t comply, a penalty of extreme misconduct will be called (25 yards without option and game misconduct for the player at fault). Glasses of any kind (including sunglasses) are not allowed to be worn, however, sport goggles may be! Mouth guards are optional but are recommended and all jewellery (necklaces and piercings) has to be taken off or covered with protective tape. Hats are allowed. Note that it is the official’s duty to check the team’s equipment prior to the start of the game.

2.9 Numbers
JERSEY NUMBERS ARE REQUIRED. League pinnies (with numbers) are available for use.

2.10 Jerseys
Jerseys must be tucked in. Jerseys must be the same color. Home team will have to provide an alternate jersey, for example a white shirt. (Team color will be beside name of team on the schedule). As noted above (2.9) league pinnies are available for use.

2.11 Pants
The following are prohibited - pants with pockets, shorts with pockets, pants with a belt or pants the same colour as the flags. Taping your shorts/pants is an option. Zippered pockets are allowed as long as they stay “done up”. An official may ask a player to change his pants if they do not comply with the rules. A warning will be issued and the team at fault will have to replace the player involved. A 10 yard penalty (without options) will be issued in the case of a second infraction.

2.12 Flags
Two flags must be worn by each player, on their hips. The coloured section of the flag must be worn on the outside of the pants/jerseys (jerseys must be tucked in). ONLY FLAGS ISSUED BY THE LEAGUE CAN BE WORN.
Any team that doubts the legality of one or more flags has the right to ask the officials for a measurement. If their doubts are confirmed by the measurement, a 10 yard penalty (without options) will be issued to the team at fault starting from the point where the ball was whistled dead. However, if the flag is ruled legal, the team that asked for the measurement will receive a 10 yard penalty at the point where the ball was whistled dead. A team may ask for a flag measurement only once a game. If it is obvious that other flags are not legal, the officials can call a flag protection penalty and stop the play.
The officials will whistle when they see that a defensive player has removed (flagged) one of the flags of the ball carrier. If a ball carrier does not have all his flags, a defensive player only has to touch the ball carrier to stop him.

If a player tries to fool the officials, a 15 yard penalty will be issued either at the point of infraction (without options) or from the LOS, whichever is more beneficial. An automatic 1st down goes to the other team.

A defensive player must not throw the opponents flag after flagging him. If this occurs, a warning will take place, if the defensive team repeats this act, an unsportsmanlike penalty (10 yards/automatic first down) will be applied
If a flag is not placed correctly following a defensive player’s intervention, the official may decide to let the play continue, or whistle the play down (flag protection penalty).

CHAPTER 3: PLAYERS, COACHES, AND OFFICIALS
3.1 Team Composition
A team is usually composed of players and staff (coach, manager, therapist, etc.). 8 players are on the field at one time.

A team on offense must have 3 players on the offensive line. The offensive linemen must not be more than 1 yard apart prior to the snap of the ball. All offensive linemen are eligible receivers.
The only lineman (offensive or defensive) allowed to be in a 3 point stance is the Centre on offense.
The Defensive line must have 3 players one yard off of the ball, lined up in-front of the offensive linemen.

Should the linemen not adhere to the proper formation (noted above) an illegal formation penalty will be applied: 10 yards.

For a game to start, each team must have a minimum of 6 players. The team must maintain 6 players on the field. If for some reason there is less than 6 players on the field, the game is lost by forfeit.

3.2 Team Captains
Each team may have a maximum of 4 captains with a minimum of one captain always on the field. During a game, a team cannot change their captains unless they are out of the game for an injury or a game misconduct penalty. In either of these cases, any change of captaincy must be confirmed by the officials.
At the beginning of each half, all captains must report to midfield for the choice of options. They will also receive general instructions respecting the game from the head official that they will have to relay back to their respective teams.

Once a captain has confirmed a choice of options to the official and the announcement has been made to the other team, the decision cannot be reversed.

Only the captains have the right to speak to the head official concerning a rule or a decision made on the field. Any questions must be asked before the ball is re-snapped into play. It is not permitted to have an extended argument with the officials or to contest one of their decisions. All other players must remain a minimum distance of 10 yards away from the officials’ huddle. A penalty of misconduct may be called for not respecting these rules (15 yards without options).

3.3 Player Substitution
A team may not have more than 8 players on the field when the ball is in play.
Substitutes must enter the field directly from their team bench while the ball is dead. They cannot enter the field of play once the offensive huddle has broken up or once the official has whistled to announce the start of a kick-off.

A player that enters the field to communicate a play to one of his team mates must remain on the field for the subsequent play, unless it is during a time out.

A player that leaves the field for substitution (or because of injury) must go directly to the team bench (unless the official gives permission to proceed differently.
Illegal substitution is subject to a 10 yard penalty (options).

3.4 Support Staff
Members of the support staff (even if they are players at the same time) do not have any special rights or privileges when they are on the field, unless they are also a team captain.

3.5 Injuries
No one is permitted to enter the field to take care of an injured player without the authorization of the official.

During an injury time out, no one is permitted to enter the field to give instructions to the players. This rule applies to both teams on the field during the injury.
Infractions of this rule are subject to a 10 yard penalty for misconduct (10 yards, without options).

3.6 Team Bench
All team players must remain in their designated area.
EXCEPTIONS: 1) An official gives them permission to leave that area; 2) A player is entering the field for substitution; 3) During a time-out. Infractions are subject to a misconduct penalty (15 yards without options).

Any person inside the team bench area is considered to be part of the team.

3.7 Officials
For interpretation purposes of the various rules, officials are considered part of the field (ground).
For all situations not covered in the rule book, the head official will have the authority to make decisions on the field.

3.8 Spectators
Any spectator that interferes with the normal course of the game will be ejected from the field area. It is the organization’s responsibility to ensure that the ejected spectator complies with the decision, to ensure the safety of all players, staff members and officials.
If a spectator interferes during a play, the official will have to evaluate the impact of the interference and act accordingly. For example, if it is obvious that a touchdown would have been scored without the spectator’s interference, the official will allow the touchdown. If the impact is not clear, the down will be replayed at the initial LOS.

CHAPTER 4: GENERAL CONTEXT
The following general rules apply:

4.1 Ball Possession
Ball possession occurs when a player holds on to the ball firmly and has control of it with any part of the body.

4.2 Game Situation
All game situations fall into one of these 3 categories: the ball is carried, kicked or passed.
a) The ball is carried when a player has possession of it. The hips of the ball carrier determine the position of the ball on the field.
b) The ball is kicked when a player intentionally hits the ball with the foot or with the bottom part of the leg as defined in Chapter 5.
c) The ball is passed when it is thrown by a player as defined in Chapter 7.
The ball is handed off when a player gives it to another player, hand-to-hand.
NOTE: The initial snap from the center to the QB is not considered a hand-off (Chapter 6).
A forward hand-off is considered a forward pass and a backward hand-off is considered a lateral pass.
The ball is fumbled when a ball carrier (in possession of the ball) drops it or loses control of it without passing or voluntarily kicking the ball. This can occur anywhere on the field. A defensive player may NOT strip the ball. An attempt to strip the ball will result in a 10 yard penalty from the point at which the ball was stripped (or attempted to be stripped) or where the play dies – whichever is further!!

A ball that is hit by a foot going backwards or by the bottom part of the leg in situations different than a kick is considered a lateral; if the ball goes forward it is considered a legal forward pass if it was NOT intentional.

4.3 Spotting the Ball (Start of Play)
Spotting the ball is placing it on the exact point on the field where it is:
• To be kicked for a kick-off;
• To be snapped and put in play by the offensive center.
In general, the ball is spotted at the point where it was whistled dead. If a penalty occurs or if the ball is dead because of a score, the spot of the ball (to restart the play) may be modified (see other sections).

If the play was stopped outside the hash marks, it will be spotted at the closest hash mark on the same yard line on the field. Otherwise the ball will be spotted between the hash marks.
If the ball is spotted inside the hash marks, it will remain at that specific point for restart.
EXCEPTION: To ensure that no team has an advantage regarding the conditions of the field, the official can relocate the spot of the ball on the same yard line. If it falls outside the hash marks, it will be re-spotted as closest as possible to them.

4.4 Ball in Play
The ball is in play:
• As soon as it has been kicked during a kick-off;
OR
• When the offensive center (after the ball is spotted on the field) picks the ball up or snaps it. The ball remains in play until it is whistled dead.

4.5 Free Ball/Fumbles
When a ball is in play and NOT in the possession of a player, it is considered a free ball (fumble) and both team have access to it.

EXCEPTION: Until a player from the receiving team has touched the ball during a kick (punt), players from the kicking team are not allowed to touch the ball unless the kick was blocked or tipped behind the LOS or the goal line (Chapter 5). The kicking team may NOT down the ball.

Fumbles occur when a player with possession of the ball loses control of the ball voluntarily (without interference from an opponent). Fumbles also occur when there is an incomplete lateral pass anywhere on the field.

4.6 Stripped Ball
When a player is in possession of the ball, opponents are NOT allowed to strip the ball away or hit the ball to cause a fumble (penalty is 10 yards – with options).

4.7 Dead Ball
The ball becomes dead and the play stops if one of the situations outlined below occurs. A dead ball is always whistled by the officials. Depending on the circumstances, the spot of the dead ball is not always at the point where the ball was when the whistle occurred.

DEAD BALL
CAUSE SPOT
Official’s whistle Depending on the circumstances
Ball carrier Stopped Hips at the stop point
On the ground Position of the hips on the ground
Out of bounds Position of the hips when crossing sideline
Diving Diving is not allowed, unless it’s to dive for a catch/flag an opponent
Jumping Hips at the starting point of the jump. Jumping excessively (knees up in a dangerous manner) is not allowed.
Incomplete forward pass Legal LOS
Illegal Position of the hips at the starting point of the pass
Completed forward pass Illegal Position of the hips at the starting point of the pass
Incomplete lateral pass without the opponent’s intervention Touches ground or official At the point of contact with the official or whenever the fumble “dies”
Out of bounds At the point where the ball crossed the sideline
Incomplete lateral pass WITH the opponent’s intervention Touches ground or official At the position of the hips where the opponent touched the ball or a fumble.
Out of bounds
Ball out of bounds If carried Hips of the ball carrier
Kick Out of bounds At the point where the ball crossed the sideline
Motionless ball for 3 seconds on the ground after a kick Spot of the ball
Goal posts End zone
Score End zone

PARTICULARS
Official’s Whistle:
The ball is dead at the official’s whistle, whatever the reason.
Ball Carrier:
The ball carrier is stopped when a defensive player pulls out one of the ball carrier’s flags or touches him when either of the flags is accidentally removed by the ball carrier. If the ball carrier’s flag’s are not in the proper place (for whatever reason), the ball carrier is still to be flagged but must adjust his flags prior to the start of the next play (snap of the ball). If the ball carrier does not adjust his flags before the play starts, the ref may call a delay of game penalty (10 yards from the LOS).
The ball carrier is considered on the ground if part of the body (other than the feet and the free hand not holding the ball) is touching the ground and must be touched for the play to be whistled dead.
The ball carrier is out of bounds when part of the body or the ball being held touches someone or something that is considered to be out of bounds (Chapters 2.3).
NOTE: Players may dive or jump to catch, knock down or intercept the ball, and try to stop the ball carrier (pull out flag). By doing so, they are subject to a penalty if their movements result in an illegal action (ie. Diving to “flag” an opponent, but end up tackling them will end up in a roughing penalty).

Ball Out of Bounds:
The ball is out of bounds when it touches something or someone that is considered out of bounds
(Chapter 2.3).
Motionless Ball on the Ground for More Than 3 Seconds:
On a kick, the ball can remain motionless for up to 3 seconds on the ground. The receiving team has to pick it up before the time has elapsed or the ball will be whistled dead.
Goal Post:
The ball is dead as soon as it touches the goal post. Buhler does not have goal posts!!!
Score:
The ball is dead as soon as a touchdown or a convert is scored. A touchdown or a convert is scored as soon as the ball carrier enters the end zone.

4.8 Pass Behind the Line
There can only be one forward ball motion (hand off or throw) behind the LOS. Should a team execute a lateral ball motion behind the LOS, they can still execute a forward pass (as long as the ball remains behind the LOS).

Should a forward pass behind the LOS not be complete, it is NOT ruled a free ball (fumble).

Should a lateral pass behind the LOS not be complete, it is ruled a free ball (fumble).

4.9 Unintentional Whistle
If an unintentional whistle occurs, the ball is automatically dead. The team in possession of the ball will have the option to replay the down at the original LOS, or accept the play as is (where it was whistled dead). On a pass play, if the pass was yet to be completed at the time of the whistle, the down will be replayed at the original LOS.

CHAPTER 5: KICKING GAME

5.1 General Content
A ball is kicked when it is hit by a player’s foot or with the bottom part of the leg (below the knee). There are 3 types of kicks: a kick-off a punt, or a free kick. A kick gives possession of the ball to the opposing team.
Immunity:
The first player to touch the ball kicked by the opponent (returner) has a 5 yard immunity area: no player on the kicking team (including the kicker) can be inside this 5 yard area when the returner touches the ball for the first time. Infractions result in a penalty for not respecting immunity (penalty with options). If a player from the kick receiving team touches the ball (without control), the ball becomes live and the immunity rule is no longer in effect.
Kicked Ball in the end zone:
In the air: Single. 1st down on the 30 yard line
Touches only the ground: Single. 1st down on the 30 yard line
Touches a player: Single. 1st down on the 30 yard line
Single:
A team scores a single (1 point) when one of the players kicks the ball:
• Inside the opponent’s end zone and the play is whistled dead or the ball goes through the end zone and crosses the back line/side-lines.
A team that has conceded a single will take possession of the ball on their own side of the field at the 30 yard line.

5.2 Kick-Off
General
The kick-off is executed as the 1st play to start a half or after a touchdown.
Kick-off occurs on the kicking teams 40 yard line. The application of penalties can modify the placement of the football.

During a kick-off, the ball may be placed on the ground, held by another player, or it can be placed on a kicking tee. The team executing the kick-off is responsible for removing the kicking tee from the field once the ball is whistled dead. The team receiving has the choice to what ball is kicked (kicking team or receiving team).

A huddle is not mandatory for a kick-off. The kicking team has 25 seconds after the official’s whistle to kick the ball. Once time has expired, the official will stop the play and give a penalty for delay of game (5 yards). If there is a second penalty for delay of game, the opposing team will take possession where the ball was spotted. After the first penalty for delay of game, the official must inform both teams of the implications of a second penalty for delay of game.

The receiving team on a kick-off can execute a lateral pass.

Onside Kick
In the last 5 minutes of the 4th quarter, the losing team may attempt an onside kick.
An onside kick is performed if the returning team is unable to return the ball past their own 20 yard line.
Should the kicking team be successful in stopping the returning team from making their 20 yard line, they will take possession of the ball at the 50 yard line.
Offside on a Kick-Off
Neutral zone: the neutral zone is the area between the kick-off line, the line 20 yards in front of the kick-off line and the 2 sidelines.4 players on the receiving team must line up 20 yards in front of the kick off line.
At the exact moment when the ball is kicked, all players on the kicking team (except for the holder) have to be behind the ball (if not, penalty for offside: 5 yard penalty and re-kick, or the receiving team may decline the penalty and take the ball at the point where the play stopped).
Until the ball is kicked, players on the receiving team must remain on their side of the neutral zone (if not, penalty for offside: 5 yard penalty and re-kick or kicking team may decline the penalty and the receiving team takes possession of the ball at the point where the play stopped).
Kick-Off Out of Bounds
A kick-off is out of bounds when:
• The ball goes out of bounds without touching the playing surface or end zone, any player or goal post;
• The ball goes out of bounds by crossing the sidelines of the field of play after touching the playing field, but without touching a player or the goal post;
Unless it is touched by a player on the receiving team, the ball must travel at least 20 yards (with or without any bounce) towards the opponent’s end zone (if not, penalty for illegal procedure – 5 yards with options).

Penalties
Delay of game on a kick-off: no options
• Kicking line moved back 5 yards and re-kick by the team at fault.
• 2nd consecutive infraction by the kicking team: loss of possession at the kicking line.
Offside on kick-off: options for team not at fault
• Kicking line is moved 5 yards back towards the team at fault and re-kick;
• Penalty is declined and the possession of the ball is taken at the spot where the ball was whistled dead.
Kick-off out of bounds: options for the receiving team
• Kicking line is moved 5 yards back towards the team at fault and re-kick;
• Receiving team takes possession of the ball on the 40 yard line;
• Receiving team takes possession at the point where the ball went out of bounds.
No yard rule on a kick-off: options for team not at fault
• Kicking line is moved 5 yards back towards the team at fault and re-kick;
• 5 yard penalty starting at the point of infraction and ball possession for the receiving team.
• 15 yard penalty if there is extreme contact during this misconduct or if the kicking team touches the ball before the receiving team
• Penalty is declined and the possession of the ball is taken at the spot where the ball was whistled dead.
Illegal substitution on a kick-off: options for team not at fault
• Kicking line is moved 5 yards back towards the team at fault and re-kick;
• Penalty is declined and the possession of the ball is taken at the spot where the ball was whistled dead.

5.3 Punting
General
A punt is executed to give possession of the ball to the opponents by pushing them as far back as possible into their zone. A punt can be executed at any time, on any down and without being announced.
A punt must be executed behind the line of scrimmage.
A punt is executed by a player who receives the ball by the center, then releases the ball with the hands to kick it before it touches the ground. After the snap from the center, the punter is the only player allowed to touch the ball before the kick (if not, penalty for illegal procedure).
During a punt, a minimum of 4 players on the kicking team must remain stationary on the LOS and are not allowed to cross the LOS before the ball is kicked (if not, penalty for illegal procedure).
If the kicked ball is falling in an area where there are many players, the official can whistle the play dead while the ball is coming down. The ball becomes officially dead at the spot where the ball made contact with the ground or a player. The no yard rule doesn’t apply.
If a punt goes off the field by crossing a sideline inside the playing surface, the ball will be spotted at the exact yard line where it went out. If it goes off the field inside the end zone, then the rules of a single will apply.

During a punt, the receiving team cannot execute a forward pass.

Contact or Roughing the Kicker:
A judgement has to be made by the official when contact is made with the kicker. Voluntary and deliberately violent contact made with the kicker results in a roughing the kicker penalty. Accidental contact or one that is made with the attempt to avoid contact by the defender will result in a penalty for contacting the kicker.
Punt that does not cross the LOS or the goal line
The ball is dead when it touches the ground, a player or if it goes out of bounds. The “no yard” rule does not apply.

Punt that does not cross the goal line: when a punt is executed from the team’s own end zone and it does not cross the goal line, a safety will be awarded to the receiving team.

Tipped Punt
A tipped punt is a kicked ball touched by a player (offense or defence) immediately after being kicked, before it crosses the line of scrimmage and still continues its path towards the opponent’s end zone. A tipped punt is considered an untouched ball.

If the ball crosses the LOS, all the rules of punting apply. If it doesn’t cross the LOS, the ball will be dead the moment it touches the ground, a player, or goes out of bounds. The receiving team will then take over possession of the ball at the point where the ball was whistled dead. The no yard rule does not apply.

Blocked punt
A blocked punt is a kicked ball touched by a player (defence) immediately after being kicked, before it crosses the line of scrimmage and does not continue its path towards the opponent’s end zone. The no yard” rule does not apply.

Blocked punt recovered:
When a blocked punt is recovered by the kicking or receiving team, the ball remains in play.
When the kicking team recovers the blocked punt, continuation of the play is considered normal - the team may kick, pass or run the ball.
If a punt is blocked or tipped by the receiving team inside the end zone of the kicking team, and the ball does not cross the goal line or goes out of bounds inside the end zone, the receiving team scores a touchdown.

Penalties
No yard rule: options for the team not at fault
• 5 yard penalty (15 for extreme contact or downed ball) from the point of infraction and 1st down is awarded;
• Penalty is declined and ball is spotted at the point where the play was stopped.
Illegal procedure on a punt: options for the team not at fault
• Loss of 5 yards for kicking team and re-kick.
• Penalty is declined and ball is spotted at the point where the play was stopped.
Contact with the kicker
• 10 yard penalty from the LOS and replay down for the kicking team; if the yards gained by the penalty are sufficient, a 1st down is awarded to the kicking team.
• Penalty is declined and ball is spotted at the point where the play was stopped.
Roughing the kicker
• 15 yard penalty and automatic 1st down for the kicking team.

5.4 Free Kicks
Free kicks occur after a safety has been committed by the offense. The kicking team will free kick (punt with no pressure) the ball from their own 20 yard line. All players on the kicking team must remain behind the ball until the ball is kicked. There is also a 20 yard neutral zone that the receiving team cannot enter until the ball is kicked.
CHAPTER 6: LINE OF SCRIMMAGE

6.1 General Content
The offensive unit is responsible for providing the football.
When the ball is in play, a team cannot have more than 8 players on the field or else a penalty for illegal substitution will be called (10 yards – options).
Line of scrimmage (LOS):
The LOS is an imaginary line that is parallel to the goal lines and that crosses the field from one sideline to another that is marked be a bean bag.

A team on offense must have 3 players on the offensive line. The offensive linemen must not be more than 1 yard apart prior to the snap of the ball. All offensive linemen are eligible receivers.
The only lineman (offensive or defensive) allowed to be in a 3 point stance is the Centre on offense.
The Defensive line must have 3 players one yard off of the ball, lined up in-front of the offensive linemen.

Should the linemen not adhere to the proper formation (noted above) an illegal formation penalty will be applied: 10 yards.

A quarterback can accept the right behind the centre or as far back as desired.

Neutral Zone:
The neutral zone is the area one yard in front of the LOS. No defensive player may be within the neutral zone prior to the snap of the ball (offside penalty).

6.2 To Start a Play
Center’s action:
The football must be on the ground to start a play. The center has to place the ball behind the bean bag, between the legs. The center then puts the ball in play by snapping it through the legs (if the movement of the snap is not from front to back – penalty for illegal procedure).
The ball is automatically in play the moment it leaves the ground on the center’s action to snap the ball. Once the ball is spotted on the ground, the center is not allowed to fake a snap to provoke an offside by the opponent (penalty for illegal procedure – 5 yards with options).
If the ball is snapped before the official whistles the play in, the ball is considered dead. The official will then stop all additional play and have the teams re-play the down. The game clock is not stopped.

6.3 Offside
The players must remain outside the neutral zone until the ball is snapped into play.
If contact is made by an offside player and an opponent that is not offside (no matter who is responsible for the contact), the offside player will be penalized for an offside (5 yards – options) even if he returns to the legal position before the snap.

If no contact is made by either player, and the offside player returns to a legal position before crossing the LOS, there is no penalty for offside on the play.

6.4 Huddle
The offensive team on the field must hold a huddle after a time-out, a change of sides on the field, or a change of possession. A huddle is not mandatory in any other cases. An infraction to these rules results in a penalty for illegal procedure.

The team on offense has 25 seconds to put the ball in play. The official will give a reasonable period of time for both teams to return to the LOS and will then whistle the 25 seconds period to start. If the ball is not put in play before the end of the 25 seconds, the offense will receive a penalty for delaying the game (section 9.3).

Conditions for a Legal Start of Play
The center must be motionless; all other players are allowed to move in any direction at the snap of the ball.

The QB is defined as the player who is the first to touch the ball after the snap of the center. The QB is allowed to take the snap directly behind the centre.

If the snap from the center falls on the ground, the ball is live. The centre keeper play is not allowed. The centre must give complete control of the ball to the QB. The play will be whistled dead and the offensive team will lose a down.

If one of the two preceding penalties occurs inside the offensive team’s 5 yard line, a safety is awarded to the defensive team.

1. A player on the offense clearly crosses the LOS before the snap of the ball, the play is automatically stopped and a penalty for illegal procedure (5 yard loss) is given to the offense; if not, the play continues with a penalty for offside – options.
2. No offensive player can take position near the sideline (close to the bench) without going to the huddle first (Sleeper penalty 10 yards – options).

6.5 Players on Defence
The defensive unit must have 3 men on the line of scrimmage, lined up right on the offensive line (one yard off).
Basic Play on Defence
Defenders are not allowed to cross the LOS to listen to the opponent’s huddle (Illegal procedure).
For a play to be considered legal, the first defensive player to cross the LOS has to start 5 yards away from the ball (LOS) at the time of the snap, except if the following is executed on offense: The QB enters the 3 yard “blitz zone”, a lateral pass, a hand-off, a forward pass, or a run by the QB that passes the LOS.
At the time of the snap, any defensive player in front of the center must be one yard off the LOS. At the snap of the ball, all players may blitz.
Defensive backs may jam a receiver within 5 yards, all blocking rules apply.

6.6 Penalties
Obstruction on the rusher or on the center: options for the team not at fault.
• 10 yard penalty to the team at fault (LOS moved towards the end zone of the penalized team); the down is replayed by the team in possession of the ball.
• Penalty is declined and the ball is spotted at the point where the play was whistled dead.

6.7 Blocking
Defensive linemen are allowed to be blocked in a legal manner (see 9.1) by the offensive line.

Defensive linemen may use the RIP and SWIM moves as long as blocking rules are respected (see 9.1).

Defensive backs may JAM receivers one yard off the line of scrimmage, up to 5 yards off the line of scrimmage. Blocking rules must be respected.

CHAPTER 7: PASSING GAME

7.1 General Content
In flag football, the football is carried, passed or kicked.
There are 2 types of passes: lateral and forward.
Lateral pass: A lateral pass is executed when a player throws the football towards his own goal line or parallel to it.
Forward pass: A forward pass is executed when a player throws the ball forward and towards the opponent’s goal line.
A hand-off or dropped ball towards one’s own end zone is considered a lateral pass.
For a change of possession to occur, a defensive player must intercept a pass, recover a fumble or stop the offensive team on 3rd down.

7.2 Incomplete and Complete Pass
A pass is considered completed if a receiver has full control of the football – the ball must be motionless and secure in possession. The receiver must stop the spiral of the ball, without juggling it, and maintain at least one foot inside the field. The ball must not have touched the ground, a goal post, or an official.

A pass is completed if it is caught inside the field in the following situations:
• The ball is caught by one player of the team in possession of the ball, or simultaneously by 2 or more offensive players;
• The ball is touched by any player, and then caught by an offensive player;
• The ball is caught simultaneously by players of both teams; the possession will be awarded to the team that executed the pass, even if it was previously touched by the defensive team;
• The pass is intercepted by one or more players of the defensive team;
• If a player touches a pass (the ball bounces off the body), and an opponent takes away the flag while the ball is in the air and the player catches the ball afterwards, the pass will be considered completed, but the play is dead at the point where the ball was first touched.
• When a defensive player forces a receiver out of bounds and the official judges that the receiver would have touched the ground inside the field if the opponent wouldn’t have touched him, the pass will be considered complete.
A pass is considered incomplete in the following situations:
• The ball touches the ground, a goal post or an official. Except if the ball hits the ground on a forward or lateral pass behind the line of scrimmage, the ball is then live (a fumble).
• A receiver catches a pass in the air inside the field, but falls out of bounds without being forced out by an opponent.
On an incomplete pass, the spotting of the ball for the following play depends on the type of pass: lateral (see 7.3), forward (see 7.4).

7.3 Lateral Pass
If the football touches the ground on a lateral pass, the play is live and continues until the ball is recovered, and the play ends when the whistle blows it dead.
When a lateral pass goes out of bounds, the ball is spotted on the yard line (hash mark) of the exact point where it went out of bounds.
The number of lateral passes allowed during the same play is unlimited. One or more lateral passes can be followed by a forward pass, as long as all the lateral passes were executed behind the LOS.
A lateral pass of a team that touches the ground inside their own end zone or that leaves the end zone by crossing the sidelines results in a safety or a single, depending on the play situation.
EXCEPTION: If recovered by defence, it is a touchdown.

7.4 Forward Pass
The Forward Passer
After the snap of the ball, a forward pass can be executed by any offensive player, as long as the rules of a forward pass are respected. The passer may very well be another player other than the one who received the snap by the center.

Legal Forward Pass
A forward pass is legal if it is the first forward pass thrown from behind the LOS, and if the football never crossed the LOS before this pass.

Illegal Procedure on a Forward Pass
If a forward pass is incomplete or completed with an illegal procedure, the play must be whistled dead immediately after the pass has been thrown. If the pass is intercepted, the play continues.

Legal Forward Pass Incomplete
If a legal forward pass is incomplete, the ball is spotted as if the play started from scrimmage.
If the passer has started the forward motion of the arm to pass the ball and then drops it, the action is considered a legal forward pass incomplete. However, if the passer drops the ball without having started a forward motion of the arm, and the ball falls to the ground, the play is considered a fumble. (Refer to fumble rules).

In both these cases, if the ball is caught, the play becomes either a complete forward pass or lateral pass depending on the direction of the ball, or even an interception if the ball is caught by an opponent.

Forward Pass Blocked
A forward pass that is blocked (after the block, the ball goes toward the end zone of the passer) is considered a legal forward pass incomplete the instant it touches the ground;
If the ball is caught, the play continues, but the offense is not allowed to throw a second forward pass, otherwise it would constitute an illegal pass.
Getting Rid of the Ball
**If the passer gets rid of the ball by throwing it intentionally out of bounds or in an area where there is no receiver (clearly, in order to avoid a loss of yardage), he will be penalized by a loss of down and yardage (the play is declared dead at the spot of delivery of the pass) and with loss of possession if it was the offensive team’s last down.

If this situation occurs from inside the passer’s own end zone, the opponent will have the choice to accept the play as an incomplete pass or to score a safety.

7.5 Interception
An interception occurs when a defensive player catches either a forward or lateral pass thrown by the offensive team. The ball changes possession and is given to the team that made the interception.
When an interception occurs inside the defence’s end zone and the player who made the interception is stopped inside the end zone, the ball will be spotted at the 10 yard line. No points will be scored by the team who lost possession of the ball.

7.6 Pass Interference
A player commits pass interference when he takes away the opponent’s advantage to position himself to receive the ball; otherwise the infraction becomes an obstruction.
There is no interference when both players, offensive and defensive, play the ball equally.
If a defensive and offensive player run in direction of the ball, both in a favourable position, and one of the player’s falls down on his own, there is no interference.
In cases where the official judges that the pass was not a possible catch, there is no interference. But other penalties may applicable.

If a defensive player tries to block the view of a receiver without looking at the ball, it is considered interference.

If interference occurs but the ball is still caught by the receiver, the receiving team has the choice to accept the interference penalty or decline it and play the ball where it became dead.

Offensive Interference
If an offensive player commits interference on a defensive player by preventing him from intercepting the ball, the interception will be considered a successful one, as long as it was clearly apparent the ball was going to be intercepted and the defensive unit will take over possession at the point of the infraction. If the ball did not appear to be clearly intercepted, obstruction will be called with no automatic possession change.

If the offensive interference occurs in the defence’s end zone, the team not at fault will take possession of the ball on their own 10 yard line.

If the interference occurs during a convert, the convert is cancelled and no points are scored.

Defensive Interference
Defensive interference is called if a defensive player prevents an offensive receiver from catching a pass, by touching him or by making him fall down voluntarily or accidentally before the receiver gets to touch the ball.

On defensive interference, the pass is considered caught by the receiver at the point of infraction or for a minimum gain of 15 yards from the LOS; automatic 1st down for the offense.

If defensive interference occurs in the defence’s end zone, a 1st down is awarded to the offense at the one yard line, including on a convert.

CHAPTER 8: SCORING

8.1 End Zone
The football is considered to be IN the end zone when the ball carriers hips touch or cross the goal line. The goal line is viewed as an infinite line vertically and horizontally.
The football is considered OUT of the end zone when the ball carriers hips touch or cross the goal line.

8.2 Touchdown
A team scores a touchdown (6 points) the instant it brings the football in the opponent’s end zone, either by passing the ball or running it. For a touchdown to be scored the ball carrier’s hips have to break the plain of the goal line.
After a touchdown, the captain of the team that was scored on has the choice to receive a kick-off or take ball to 30 yard line.

8.3 Convert
When a team scores a touchdown, they can attempt a convert by placing the ball on the 5 yard line (for 1 point) or on the 10 yard line (for 2 points). They can also decide not to attempt a convert.
Once the choice has been confirmed to the captain of the defensive unit, the offense cannot modify their choice, even if the convert is replayed because of a penalty.
On a convert attempt, the spot of the ball will be at the center of the yard line chosen by the offense (5 or 10).

A team scores a convert the instant it brings the football inside the opponent’s end zone, by running or passing it. For the convert to count, both the football and the ball carrier’s hips have to be in the end zone.

When a penalty is applied on a convert attempt, the spot of the ball for the replay of the convert can be inside the 5 yard line.

8.4 Safety
When a team brings the football into their own end zone and the play is declared dead, the other team scores a safety (2 points). On an incomplete pass there is no safety and the rules of the incomplete pass apply.
A team who scores a safety will receive the ball from the defence’s post-safety free kick line (20 yard line).

8.5 Single
A team scores a single (1 point) when one of the players kicks the ball:
• Inside the opponent’s end zone and the play is declared dead; or
• The football goes out of bounds inside the opponent’s end zone.
EXCPETION: On a kick-off, the ball must touch the ground for the single to count.
The team that allows a single will be awarded a 1st down 30 yards from midfield, on their own side of the field.

CHAPTER 9: PENALTIES

Blocking/Blocking the Flag
Blocking is ALLOWED. It is only deemed legal if it is straight on from the chest to the waist line. Any blocking from the side, from the back, above the chest and below the waist will result in major penalties, even automatic suspension from the game. Blocking must be done with HANDS ONLY!!

We want to give offenses more “fire power”, but we want it to remain safe at the same time. If it becomes too violent, the rule is subject to change. A defensive player is allowed to RIP and SWIM, but if there are any head shots, a major penalty will be called.

If the illegal block is accidental, a major penalty will be applied (10 yards from the LOS if the centre is at fault or 10 yards from the point of infraction). If the illegal block is rough, a major penalty will be applied (15 yards from the LOS or at the point of infraction). If the illegal block is dangerous and intentional, the player will be ejected from the game and the team will receive a 25 yard major penalty from the LOS.

If an offensive player attempts to block the flag intentionally or unintentionally, the play should be whistled dead immediately. There is no penalty for this infraction.

9.1 Contacting the Passer or Kicker (Options)
A player has accidentally made contact with the kicker or the QB, without roughing, while trying to avoid or minimize contact;
Penalty: options
• 10 yard penalty – move the LOS towards the end zone of the team at fault and the offense replays the down;
• Penalty is declined and the ball is spotted at the point where the play was whistled dead; continue set of downs.
NOTE: The effort of the defensive player to avoid contact must be evaluated in order to determine if the penalty is an illegal contact or a roughing call; roughing (15 yard penalty) is related to trying to deliberately hit a player without trying to avoid contact.

9.2 Delay of Game (No Options)
• On one of the team’s requests, the official allows a delay and stops the clock, once the team at fault has already used both their time outs (1.9.1);
• A team asks for a flag measurement, and the official declares it legal (2.12);
• On a kick-off, a team takes more than 25 seconds to kick the ball (5.21);
• On a kick-off, a team takes too much time to line up their players on the field (5.21);
• A team voluntarily delays the game (6.4);
Penalty: the spot of the ball is moved 10 yards towards the end zone of the team at fault.
When a team exceeds their 25 second play clock, it is a 5 yard penalty. A second offense results in a loss of downs.

NOTE: After the 1st penalty, the official must inform the team at fault of the following possible consequences:
Offense:
If the official judges that a wrongful tactic is applied by the offense to try to delay the game (legal play, delay of game, legal play), he or she, after warning the team at fault, can give a penalty for unsportsmanlike conduct and announce the change of possession of the ball at the next penalty for delay of game.

Defence:
After 2 consecutive penalties for delay of game on defence, the official will stop the clock, give a penalty for unsportsmanlike conduct, award an automatic 1st down to the offense and restart the clock at the snap of the ball. If the official judges that a wrongful tactic is applied by the defence to try to delay the game, he or she, after warning the team at fault, will stop the clock and give a penalty for unsportsmanlike conduct, award an automatic 1st down to the offense, and will restart the clock at the snap of the ball.

9.3 Diving
• A ball carrier is NOT allowed to dive.
• A player CAN dive to catch a ball. If the player catches the ball, the play is dead once the player gets flagged or touched while he’s on the ground.
• A player can dive to stop an opponent or to knock down the ball.
NOTE: A dive can bring other penalties (roughing, illegal contact, etc.).

9.4 Extreme Misconduct (Options)
• A player voluntarily hits an official.
• A player has made threats against an official.
• A player has threatened an opposing player.
• A player voluntary hits an opposing player.
• The official considers that a team member has behaved in a manner that deserves a penalty for extreme misconduct.

Penalty: game misconduct and options
• 25 yard penalty – from LOS towards the end zone of team at fault and continue set of downs;
• 25 yard penalty – from the point where play was whistled dead and continue set of downs;
NOTE: For all penalties of extreme misconduct on defence, the offense is awarded an automatic 1st down.

9.5 Flag Taken Off a Non Ball Carrier (Options)
A player has taken the flag off of an opponent who was not the ball carrier in order to put him in a disadvantage.
Penalty: options
• 10 yard penalty from LOS and replay down;
• 10 yard penalty from point where the play was whistled dead and continue set of downs.

9.6 Flag Protection
• The ball carrier has pushed away the hands or arms of an opponent with his own hands or arms;
• STIFF ARMS - roughing could apply
• The ball carrier has lowered the shoulder to create an obstacle for the defender;
• The ball carrier’s flag was not placed correctly by his own fault;
Penalty: The official will stop the play at the point of infraction. 15 YARD PENALTY at the point of infraction for roughing (from a stiff arm).

9.7 Getting Rid of the Ball (No Options)
The passer has voluntarily thrown the ball forward but out of bounds or in an area where there were no receivers, in an obvious attempt to avoid the loss of yardage;
Penalty:
The play is dead at the spot of the launch point of the pass. 10 Yard Penalty.
If it is in the end zone – options: safety or continue set of downs.

9.8 Holding (Options)
• A defensive/offensive player slowed down an opponent by holding the equipment (jersey, shorts, belt) in an attempt to pull away the flag;
• Should the defensive player that holds be the last offensive player, the last man penalty will apply (Automatic touchdown);
Penalty: options for the team not at fault
• 10 yard penalty at the point of infraction and automatic first down if the defensive holding occurs behind the line of scrimmage, otherwise 10 yard penalty at the point of infraction.
• 10 yard penalty from the previous LOS and replay down;
• Last man penalty is an automatic touchdown for the Offense;
• Penalty is declined and the ball is spotted at the point where the play was whistled dead.

9.9 Illegal Participation
A player left the team bench to enter the field while the play was still in progress, and was part of the play (touched the ball, stopped the ball carrier, or disturbed a player).
Penalty: game misconduct and options
• 10 yard penalty – LOS moved back towards the end zone of the team at fault and replay down or kick-off by the team who had previous possession of the ball;
• 10 yard penalty from point of infraction towards the end zone of the team at fault, without replaying the down or kick-off;
• Penalty is declined and the ball is spotted at the point where the play was whistled dead.
NOTE: If the intervention prevented a touchdown, the score will be awarded.
A spectator made an intervention on a play;
The official will evaluate the impact of the intervention. If there was no effect, the play will stand; if there was an effect, the official will evaluate the impact and act accordingly. If it is impossible to evaluate clearly which team was affected, the down will be replayed at the previous LOS.
NOTE: If the intervention prevented a touchdown, the score will be awarded.

9.10 Illegal Procedure during a Kick-Off (Options)
• The kicking tee places the ball more than 2 inches above the ground (5.2.1);
• The ball does not travel 20 yards and is not touched by a player of the receiving team (5.2.4);
Penalty: options for team not at fault
• Kicking line is moved 5 yards back and re-kick;
• Penalty is declined and the ball is spotted at the point where the play was whistled dead.

9.11 Illegal Procedure (Options)
• After a time out, an offensive player does not go back to the huddle (1.9.1);
• A punt was not executed from behind the LOS (5.3.1);
• A punt was not executed by the player who received the snap from the center 5.3.1);
• At the time of the punt, 4 players were not on/behind the LOS for the kicking team (5.3.1);
• A player was in the neutral zone when the ball was snapped (6.1);
• At the snap, the center did not place the ball on the ground, or did not place it in between the legs, or faked a snap (6.2);
• A player from one team moved and drew an offside for the other team (6.2, 6.3);
• The QB tried to draw an offside by using illegal tactics (6.2);
• The team on offense did not have a huddle after a time out, a change of sides or a change of possession (6.4);
• During cadence or at the snap, the offense did not have a stationary player on both sides of the center (6.5);
• An offensive player clearly crossed the LOS before the snap (6.5);
NOTE: The play is automatically dead and the down is replayed with a 5 yard loss on offense;
• A player crossed the LOS to listen to the other team’s huddle (6.6.1);
• The 1st defensive player to cross the LOS was not at least 5 yards from the LOS at the time of the snap, without any play from the offense (lateral, hand-off, forward pass, QB runs over the LOS, etc.) (6.6.1, 6.6.2);
Penalty: options for the team not at fault
• Spot of the ball moved 5 yards back towards the end zone of the team at fault and team in possession of ball replays down.
• Penalty is declined and the ball is spotted at the point where the play was whistled dead.

9.12 Illegal Return to Play (Options)
A player left the field of play of his own volition while the ball was live and came back to the field and was part of the play (touched the ball, stopped the ball carrier or disturbed an opponent).
Penalty: options
• LOS moved 10 yards back towards the end zone of the team at fault and replay down or kick-off by the team previously in possession;
• 10 yard penalty from the point of infraction without replay down or kick-off;
• Penalty is declined and the ball is spotted at the point where the play was whistled dead.
NOTE 1: On a convert:
Infraction by offense - convert is refused
Infraction by defence:
Inside the end zone - ball spotted at the one yard line
Outside the end zone - ball spotted half the distance to the goal line
NOTE 2: If a player is pushed off the field without the ball by an opponent or slides off the field, the player is still considered in play, unless he did not try to re-enter the field ASAP.

Note 3: If a player is pushed off the field with the ball by an opponent, there will be a roughing penalty (15 yards)

9.13 Illegal Substitution
• A team has more than 8 players on the field during a play (3.3);
• A player substituting for a teammate did not come from the team bench (3.3);
• A player has entered the field after the offense has finished its huddle (3.3);
• A player has entered the field after the official’s whistle to signal the start of a kick-off (5.2.1);
• A player that came on the field to give instructions to the huddle did not remain on the field for the play (3.3);
• A player that left the field to be replaced or because of an injury did not go directly to the team bench (3.3);
Penalty: options
• 10 yard penalty from the LOS towards the end zone of the team at fault, and replay down or re-kick;
• Penalty is declined and the ball is spotted at the point where the play was whistled dead.

9.14 Jumping
• A ball carrier is not allowed to jump with knees up. There is no penalty when it occurs but the play is whistled dead at the point of origin of the jump (hips);
• A player can jump to catch the football, stop a player or knock down a pass; the play continues.
NOTE: A jump can instigate other penalties (roughing, contact, etc.).

9.15 Kick-Off Out of Bounds (Options)
• On a kick-off, the football went out of bounds without touching the field, a player or a goal post (5.2.3);
• On a kick-off, the football went out of bounds by crossing the sideline after touching the field, without touching a player or a goal post (5.2.3);
Penalty: options
• 5 yard penalty from the kicking line and re-kick;
• Take possession of the ball on the 40 yard line;
• Take possession of the ball at the point where it went out of bounds.

9.16 Misconduct (Options)
During a play, a defensive player tries to fool the official to draw a whistle (2.13);
Penalty:
1st down is awarded to the team not at fault; in addition, they have a choice between:
• 15 yard penalty from the where the play was whistled dead, or
• 15 yard penalty from the LOS.

9.17 Misconduct (No Options)
• A player used obscene or racist language on the field, made a threat, whispered unsportsmanlike remarks, or made some humiliating or intimidating gestures, either to another player, a spectator or an official;
• A player has argued or contested a decision made by an official with too much insistence (3.2);
• A player that is not a captain was standing less than 10 yards away from the official’s huddle;
• A team member has entered the field to take care of an injured player without the official’s authorization (3.5);
• During a injury time out, a team member came on the field and gave instructions to the players (3.5);
• A team member left the bench area without the permission of the official, without it being a legal substitution or a time out (3.6);
• A team member has deliberately disrupted the normal course of the game;
• A player has faked an injury or the loss of balance in order to deliberately delay the game or to draw a penalty from the opponent;
• A defensive player shouted or made noises in the attempt to disrupt the offensive calls (6.6.1);
Penalty:
Spot of the ball is moved 15 yards towards the end zone of the team at fault;
NOTE: If the official finds that the infraction is serious, a penalty of extreme misconduct may be applied.

9.18 No Yards Rule (Options)
• During a kick, a player from the kicking team was inside a 5 yard radius of the 1st opponent to touch the ball (5.1);
• A player from the kicking team was the first player on the field to touch the ball after the kick (5.1).
Penalty: options
• 5 yard penalty from the point of infraction and 1st down for the returning team
• 15yard penalty from the point of infraction if the ball is touched by the kicking team first
• Penalty is declined and the ball is spotted at the point where the play was whistled dead
• No yard rule not respected on a kick-off : additional options
• Kicking line is moved 5 yards back and re-kick

9.19 Obstruction (Options)
• A player takes away an advantageous position of an opponent outside the yard radius on a kick
• An offensive player disturbs the rusher (6.7)
Penalty: options for the team not at fault
• 10 yard penalty – LOS moved back towards the end zone of the team at fault and replay the down;
• Penalty is declined and the ball is spotted at the point where the play was whistled dead.
NOTE 1: A player can take a stationary position providing that this position is taken soon enough so the opponent can adjust to it and that the intention was clearly not to disturb. A player can cross the path of an opponent providing that the opponent is not disturbed.
NOTE 2: Note 1 does not apply to the rusher. Nobody can stand in the way of the rusher beyond the LOS, at any time.

9.20 Offensive Charge (No Options)
The ball carrier contacts a defender in position to take away the flag; the play is dead at this exact point.
Penalty:
15 yard penalty from the point of infraction. If the 1st down was achieved at the time of the infraction, the 1st down stands; if not, the set of downs continue.

9.21 Offside (Options)
• At the exact moment of a kick-off, a player was inside the neutral zone (5.2.2);
• There is a contact between a player who is offside and an opponent who is not, no matter who initiated the contact (6.3);
• An offensive player crossed the LOS before the snap of the ball (6.5);
Penalty: options
• 5 yard penalty – kicking line is moved towards the end zone of the team at fault and re-kick;
• Penalty is declined and the ball is spotted at the point where the play was whistled dead.

9.22 Pass Interference
OFFENSIVE INTERFERENCE (7.6.1)
Penalty:
The interception is awarded to the defence or the convert is refused.
DEFENSIVE INTERFERENCE (7.6.2)
Penalty:
1st down for the team not at fault and ball spotted at:
• At the point of infraction
OR
• 15 yards away from the previous LOS or the launch point of a pass
OR
• At the one yard line if the interference took place inside the end zone.
When defensive interference occurs but the ball is still caught by the receiver, the team not at fault has the choice to accept the interference or decline it and continue the possession as is.

9.23 "Pick Play" (Options)
Players on offense cross; one of the players makes no effort to catch the ball and disturbs a defender in the coverage assignment.
Penalty: options for team not at fault
• 10 yard penalty – LOS moved back and replay down;
• Penalty is declined and the ball is spotted at the point where the play was whistled dead.

9.24 Roughing (Options)
For all roughing by a defensive player, the offense is awarded an automatic 1st down.
• A player is responsible for violent contact with an opponent;
• A player has voluntarily pushed an opponent in the back or out of bounds;
• A player has hit an opponent on the head;
• A player has voluntarily tripped an opponent with the foot, leg, hand or arm;
• A player has hit the QB’s arm while in the action of passing the ball.
• A player has hit the QB after the ball has been thrown
Penalty: options
• 15 yard penalty – LOS moved back towards the end zone of the team at fault and continue set of downs;
• 15 yard penalty from the point where the play was whistled dead towards the end zone of the team at fault and continue set of downs;
NOTE 1: For all defensive roughing, the offense is automatically awarded a 1st down.
NOTE 2: The official can convert a roughing penalty into a penalty for unnecessary roughness.

9.25 "Sleeper" (Options)
• An offensive player has taken a spot near the sideline close to the bench without going to the huddle first (6.5).
Penalty: options for team not at fault
• 10 yard penalty from LOS and replay down by the team at fault;
• Penalty is declined and the ball is spotted at the point where the play was whistled dead.

9.26 Spinning
Spinning is allowed. However, should violent contact occur because of a spin, roughing (15 yard from point) may be called.
Should a defender spin to avoid a block, they must be aware that they are likely going to get hit from the side or back and that it is legal to get contacted like that.

9.27 Unnecessary Roughness (No Options)
• A player has received a roughing penalty for an infraction that the official has qualified as excessive;
• A player has voluntarily hit an opponent with the intention of injury or intimidation;
• A player has voluntarily hit an opponent with a fist, the back of the hand, a knee, an arm or with a kick – 25 yards without options.
Penalty: options
• 25 yard penalty – LOS is moved back towards the end zone of the team at fault and continue set of downs;
• 25 yard penalty from the point where the play was whistled dead towards the end zone of team at fault. Continue set of downs.
NOTE 1: For all unnecessary roughness on defence, the offense is automatically awarded a 1st down.
NOTE 2: The official can convert an unnecessary roughness penalty into a penalty for game misconduct.

9.28 Unsportsmanlike conduct (No options)
• Despite a 1st warning, a team still uses an illegal football (2.6);
• Despite a 1st warning to the team, a player is still wearing inadequate pants (2.11);
• During a flag verification, the flag is judged illegal (2.12);
• Despite a 1st warning, a team uses foul language out loud
• Despite a 1st warning to the team, a player still throws the opponents flag, after flagging him;
Penalty:
The football is moved 10 yards back towards the end zone of the team at fault.

CHAPTER 10: APPLICATION OF PENALTIES

The team not at fault can decline a penalty. If they do decline it, the play remains as is.
If they accept the penalty, the official will present the options available to the captain of the team not at fault (if options apply). The captain will then indicate the choice. The official announces the decision to the other team and applies it.

Once the official has announced the choice of penalty, the decision cannot be changed. If the team not at fault received false information or the official forgets to mention some options, an appeal has to be made to the head official before the start of the next play.
If after the application of the penalty, the team at fault gains sufficient yardage for a 1st down, it will be awarded to them.

When the offense commits an infraction after the yards for the 1st down were gained, the penalty will apply at the point where the ball was at the moment of the infraction. The offense will keep their 1st down at the new LOS created by the application of the penalty.
When a team commits more than one infraction on the same play, the team not at fault must choose only one of the penalties.

When both teams commit an infraction on the same play, the official will apply both penalties in the order that they happened on the play, adding or subtracting the yardage.

Penalties for roughing or unnecessary roughness apply independently of other penalties. Unsportsmanlike penalties and games misconducts are considered penalties that apply while the play is dead.

When a team commits an infraction after the play (ball considered dead), yards won or lost or points scored during the play will stand and the penalty will be applied at the next LOS.

When an infraction is committed while the ball was dead, the yardage is added or subtracted to the new LOS. If the penalty occurs after the scoring of a touchdown or a convert, the team not at fault will be able to apply the penalty on the following play or kick.

Inside the 30 yard line of the team at fault, yardage for penalties cannot move the LOS closer than half the distance to the goal line.

EXCEPTION: Interference, roughing, unnecessary roughness and game misconduct.

If, before the reduction of the penalty yardage, as mentioned in the paragraph above, the normal application would have given a 1st down, the 1st down will be awarded despite the reduction of yardage.
The football cannot be spotted inside the one yard line, even after the application of a penalty.
A quarter cannot finish on an accepted penalty.

Game misconduct:
A team member that was ejected can remain in the area of the team bench, but is not allowed to intervene, talk or shout to the players or officials or disturb the game in any way.
If this rule is not obeyed, the player will be ejected from the field. He will have 3 minutes to comply and will not be permitted to return before the officials have left the game. If he still does not comply, the official can give the opposing team the win. The official will start by taking a time out to explain the situation to both teams.

CHAPTER 11: INFRACTIONS DURING THE LAST 3 MINUTES OF A HALF

Philosophy
Team managers and coaches will make sure to control the level of aggressiveness of their players and will try to enforce the importance of the value of respect to the rules, the officials and the opponents.

11.1 Penalty Without Yardage
Diving/Flag protection/Jumping

11.2 5 Yard Penalty
Offside (options)/Kick-off out of bounds (options) (also 25)
Illegal procedure (options)

11.3 10 Yard Penalty
Illegal stop (options)/Delay of game (without options)/Blocking (without options)
Unsportsmanlike conduct (without options)/Contact with the passer (options)
Pull out flag to put an opponent in a disadvantage (options)/Defensive interference (also 10)
Obstruction (options)/Illegal participation (options)/"Pick Play"(options)
Holding (options)/Illegal return to play (options)/"Sleeper"(options)
Illegal substitution (options)/Illegal use of the goal post (options)
No yards (options)
Stripping the ball

11.4 15 Yard Penalty
Offensive charge (no options)/Misconduct (options)
Roughing

11.5 25 Yard Penalty
Extreme misconduct (options)
Unnecessary roughness (no options)

11.6 Variable Yardage Penalties
Getting rid of the ball (no options)
Offensive interference (no options)
Defensive interference (also 10)

Various icons used from the Silk Icons library.

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