Over the past few weeks, I’ve gone through each of the 50 questions on the IHSA football exam (part 1) 5 questions at a time. I tried to provide all of my reasoning behind each answer and give the applicable rules or case plays. Now that I’ve made it through all 50 questions on the IHSA exam, I’ve decided to combine all of the questions and answers in a single post. I believe that having all of the information in one place will assist people in looking up questions with which they still might be grappling.
The explanations and answers provided below are mine and mine alone. This was written using the test bank questions and my rule and case books. I do not have the exam answer key and I do not know all of these answers to be correct. I do know at least 25 of them are correct as I scored 25/25 on my exam.
If you have any questions/comments/concerns, please leave them using the comment form below. If you’d prefer, you can also email me, tweet me or ask me on facebook.
Q1
A varsity game is tied at the end of regulation. Team A used all 3 timeouts during the second half while Team B used no time outs during the second half. Which of the following statements is correct regarding the number of timeouts each team has as the game moves to the first overtime period?
A. team A has no time outs and team B has 3 time outs.
B. team A has 1 timeout and team B has 4 time outs.
C. team A has 1 timeout and team B has 1 time out.
D. team A has 3 timeouts and team B has 6 time outs.
Rule 3-5-1 (p. 42) discusses charged time outs and when they can be used. It states that unused timeouts cannot be carried over. Unused first half timeouts cannot be used in the second half and unused second half time outs can not be used in overtime. Whether or not a team used its allotted second half time outs is of no consequence.
So how many timeouts does each team get?
The note in Rule 3-1-1 (p. 38) tells us to look in the supplementary section of the rule book for an example of an overtime procedure (which is used by the IHSA). On page 91 of the supplementary section, begins a section on resolving tied games. Under the listing for 3-5-1 the section states, “each team shall be permitted one time-out during each overtime period (a series for A and a series for B)”.
Answer C. team A has 1 timeout and team B has 1 time out.
Q2
Player B27 intercepts a ball in his own end zone. While attempting to run the ball out, he is hit from behind and fumbles while still in the end zone. The ball is fumbled forward and rolls out of bounds at Team B’s 2-yard line. The correct call is:
A. safety; award Team A two points
B. touchback; 1st and 10 for Team B at the 20-yard line
C. award possession to Team A; first and goal for Team A at the 2-yard line
D. 1st and 10 for Team B at the 2-yard line
First we should determine the dead ball spot and the team in possession at the end of the down.
The dead ball spot is clearly team B’s 2-yard line. The fact that the fumble was forward could not matter less. When trying to determine who was in possession at the end of the down it is important to remember that once B27 has possession of this ball with clean hands, they will retain possession (barring another change of possession).
Since we have a dead ball spot at B’s 2-yard line, we cannot have a safety (Rule 8-5-2 [p. 66-67]) or a touchback (Rule 8-5-3 [p. 67]). We’ve also determined that B had possession at the end of the down, so there is no reason to award the ball to team A. The correct answer is 1st and 10 for team B at the 2-yard line.
Answer D. 1st and 10 for Team B at the 2-yard line
Q3
Team A is attempting a screen pass where A25 will catch the ball five yards behind the line of scrimmage. As A25 is preparing to catch the pass in flight, he is knocked down by defender B40 and the forward pass falls incomplete. The correct call is:
A. nothing; legal play by B40 and pass is incomplete
B. defensive pass interference by B40; penalize 15 yards from the previous spot and award a first down
C. defensive holding by B40; penalize 5 yards from the previous spot and award an automatic first down
D. defensive holding by B40; penalize 10 yards from the previous spot and award a first down
In this case, the most important piece of information is that the forward pass was being thrown to a spot behind the line of scrimmage (LOS). According to Rule 7-5-7 (p. 61), pass interference restrictions apply only beyond the neutral zone and only if the legal forward pass, untouched by B in or behind the neutral zone, crosses the neutral zone; we cannot have defensive pass interference by B40.
In addition to 7-5-7, this concept is mentioned in the Football Fundamentals section of the rule book (p. 81). It states, “a forward-pass interference foul can occur only beyond the neutral zone”.
Furthermore, based on the description B40 did not commit a defensive holding infraction. Nor did he commit any other personal contact foul.
This is a legal play by B40. The pass is simply incomplete.
Answer A. nothing; legal play by B40 and pass is incomplete
Q4
Team K’s punt is blocked on fourth down with the game clock running. K87 picks up the ball behind the line of scrimmage and advances it 20 yards for a first down. The clock should next start on the:
A. ready for play signal.
B. snap.
C. none of the above.
Rule 3-4-3 (p. 42) specifies the following reasons which would result in the clock being started on the snap:
a. The ball goes out of bounds.
b. B is awarded a new series.
c. Either team is awarded a new series following a legal kick.
d. The ball becomes dead behind the goal line.
e. A legal or illegal forward pass is incomplete.
f. A request for a charged or TV/radio time-out is granted.
g. A period ends.
h. A team attempts to consume time illegally.
i. The penalty for a delay of game foul is accepted.
j. A fair catch is made.
Since the kick was legal and A was awarded a first down, the clock will start at the snap.
Answer B. Snap
Q5
Team A is leading late in the game with the game clock running. While they are attempting to snap the ball, a delay of game foul is called. After the accepted penalty, the clock should start on the:
A. ready for play signal, since the clock was running before the foul
B. ready for play signal, with no exception
C. snap, only if the officials believe that Team A was trying to run time off the clock
D. snap, with no exception
Rule 3-4-3 (p. 42) discusses when the clock should be started with the snap. 3-4-3 (i) states that the clock should be started with the snap if the penalty for a delay of game foul is accepted. Since the penalty was accepted in play in question, the clock should start with the snap with no exception.
Answer D. snap, with no exception
Q6
First and goal for Team A on the 5-yard line. Defender B70 comes on to the field to replace B12. However, B12 realizes that he can’t get to his sideline before the snap, so he exits the field through the end line of the end zone and is moving toward his team box out of bounds when the ball is snapped. The correct call is:
A. foul for illegal substitution; this is a live ball foul and the play should be allowed to continue
B. foul for illegal substitution; this is a dead ball foul as soon as B12 crosses the end line
C. legal play as B12 left the field and was moving toward his team box
D. none of the above
Rule 3-7-2 (p. 45) states that “a player, replaced player or a substitute is required to leave the field at the side on which his team box is located and go directly to his team box”. The penalty prescribed for article 2 is a dead ball illegal substitution foul.
Answer B. foul for illegal substitution; this is a dead ball foul as soon as B12 crosses the end line
Q7
Runner A20 is tackled for a five yard gain on a play where B99 commits a personal foul 15 yards beyond the neutral zone. The correct penalty enforcement is:
A. penalize from the basic spot; in this case, it is the spot where the personal foul was committed.
B. penalize from the basic spot; in this case, it is from the end of the run.
C. Team A gets the option of enforcing the penalty from the end of run or the spot of the foul.
D. penalize 15 yards from the previous spot.
This question is testing your knowledge of penalty enforcements.
Since the foul on this play does not require special enforcement (Rule 10-5) nor does it require all-but-one enforcement (Rule 10-6), we must determine the basic spot prior to enforcing the penalty. The basic spot is determined by the action that occurred during the down. Since this is a running play as defined in Rule 10-3-2 (p. 76), the basic spot is the end of the run according to Rule 10-4-4 (p. 76).
Answer B. penalize from the basic spot; in this case, it is from the end of the run.
Q8
The game is tied and after the last play of the fourth quarter, defender B50 is flagged for a late hit. Team A wins the toss in overtime and elects to go on defense first. Team B will begin overtime:
A. 1st and goal from the 10-yard line; fouls can never carry over from regulation to overtime.
B. 1st and goal from the 25-yard line; dead ball fouls can carry over from regulation to overtime.
C. the officials made an error; Team A should have been given one untimed down in regulation due to Team B’s foul
D. there is no penalty as time has expired
In the resolving tied games section of the NFHS rulebook (p. 88), this exact scenario is covered.
3.1.1 SITUATION B: During the last timed down of the fourth period A1 advances for a touchdown making the score B-22 and A-20. On the try A2 passes complete to A3 in the end zone. Following the try B1 commits an unsportsmanlike foul. Ruling: The penalty for the foul by B1 after the successful try will be administered from the succeeding spot to begin overtime play. Comment: In this situation the referee should explain to the captains at the time of the coin toss the fact the penalty will be administered on the first series of downs in the overtime. The place from which the ball will be put in play for each team could have an effect on the choice made by the winner of the toss.
Since B will be on offence first in overtime, the penalty will be enforced from the 10-yard line and take the ball to the 25-yard line. It will be first and goal.
Answer B. 1st and goal from the 25-yard line; dead ball fouls can carry over from regulation to overtime.
Q9
1st and 10 for Team A at their own 20-yard line and Team A drops back to pass and throws. Offensive lineman A65 is flagged for holding 8 yards behind the line of scrimmage at the 12-yard line while the ball is in the air. If the penalty is accepted, what is the correct enforcement?
A. penalize 10 yards from the 20-yard line; 1st and 20 from the 10-yard line
B. penalize half the distance from the 12-yard line; 1st and 24 from the 6-yard line
C. the defense gets the option of having the penalty enforced from the previous spot or the spot of the foul
D. none of the above
According to the all-but-0ne principle detailed in Rule 10-6 (p. 77), fouls by the offensive team behind the basic spot during a loose ball or running play will be enforced from the spot of the foul. Since the foul occurred at the 12-yard line, the penalty will be enforced from that spot.
Since penalty enforcement cannot take the ball more than half the distance from the enforcement spot to the offending team’s goal line [Rule 10-1-5 (p. 74)], the ball will be moved 6 yards to the 6-yard line. The down will be replayed and the line to gain will remain the 30, so we have 1st and 24 from the 6-yard line.
Answer B. penalize half the distance from the 12-yard line; 1st and 24 from the 6-yard line
Q10
Team K’s scrimmage kick is rolling inside the 10-yard line. A member of Team K is standing in the end zone and bats the ball back into the field of play (the ball never breaks the plane of the goal line) where it comes to rest at the 3-yard line. The correct ruling on this play is:
A. touchback
B. legal play; Team R will have the ball 1st and 10 at the 3-yard line
C. foul for an illegal bat; the basic spot for this foul is the 20-yard line; 1st and 10 for Team R at the 35-yard line
D. foul for an illegal bat; the basic spot for this foul is the goal line; 1st and 10 for Team R at the 15-yard line
Since the scrimmage kick has been grounded, the answer to this question would be the same regardless of whether or not the kick was a scoring attempt. The positioning of the K player has no bearing on whether a touchback occurs on this play. Rule 6-3-1 (a) (p. 54) states the following:
It is a touchback if any free kick or scrimmage kick Which is not a scoring attempt or which is a grounded three-point fieldgoal attempt, breaks the plane of R’s goal line, unless R chooses a spot of first touching by K.
Since the ball never broke the plane of R’s goal line, a touchback did not occur.
The only other item to consider in this play is whether or not the bat by K was legal. Rule 9-7-2′s EXCEPTION (p. 72) states that “a K player may bat toward his own goal line a grounded scrimmage kick which is beyond the neutral zone and may also bat toward his own goal line a scrimmage kick in flight beyond the neutral zone, if no R player is in position to catch the ball”.
The bat by K of the grounded scrimmage kick was legal.
Answer B. legal play; Team R will have the ball 1st and 10 at the 3-yard line
Q11
The tooth and mouth protector shall be any readily visible color except:
A. pink
B. black
C. completely white or clear
D. red
Rule 1-5-1 (p. 17-20) discusses mandatory player equipment. According to rule 1-5-1 (c) [5] (c) [1,2] the tooth and mouth protector shall not be completely white or completely clear.
Answer C. completely white or clear
Q12
The helmet must be secured by a properly fastened chin strap with at least how many attachment points?
A. 2
B. 3
C. 4
D. 5
Rule 1-5-1 (a) [2] (p. 19) discusses the securing of the helmet. It states that the helmet shall be secured by a properly fastened chin strap with at least four attachment points.
Answer C. 4
Q13
An illegal fair-catch signal is any signal by a runner:
A. after the kick has touched the ground.
B. after the kick has been caught or recovered.
C. prior to the ball being kicked.
D. while the kick is in flight.
Rule 2-9 (p. 27) discusses the various aspects of a fair catch. 2-9-5 details the circumstances under which a runner can give an illegal fair catch signal. An illegal fair catch signal by the runner is any signal that is given after the kick has been caught or recovered.
Answer B. after the kick has been caught or recovered.
Q14
At the time of the snap a defensive player is considered on his line of scrimmage when he is within:
A. 1 foot of the line of scrimmage.
B. 2 feet of the line of scrimmage.
C. 1 yard of the line of scrimmage.
D. 2 yards of the line of scrimmage.
Rule 2-25 (p. 32) discusses the line of scrimmage. 2-25-3 specifically addresses defensive players on the line of scrimmage by stating, “a defensive player is on the line of scrimmage when he is within 1 yard of his scrimmage line at the snap”.
Answer C. 1 yard of the line of scrimmage.
Q15
Once the referee signals the ball ready for play, the ball must be snapped or a free kick must take place within:
A. 20 seconds
B. 25 seconds
C. 30 seconds
D. 40 seconds
Rule 3-6-2 (p. 45) discusses delay of game, which can be described as action or inaction that prevents promptness in putting the ball in play. The rule goes on to discuss six separate actions or inactions that constitue delay of game (a-f). According to 3-5-2 (a), the failure to snap or free kick within 25 seconds after the ball is marked ready for play constitues delay of game.
Answer B. 25 seconds
Q16
Player R1 muffs a scrimmage kick at the 40-yard line after making a valid fair-catch signal. The kick is near the sideline where K1 attempts to recover, but he muffs it and it goes out of bounds at the 35-yard line. The correct call is:
A. awarded a fair catch; R’s ball at the 40-yard line
B. K was last to touch the ball; K’s ball at the 35-yard line
C. R’s ball at the 35-yard line
D. since no one possessed the ball after the kick, R may choose an awarded fair catch at the 40, or choose to have K rekick
Rule 6-2-7 (p. 54) states that when any scrimmage kick is out of bounds between the goal lines while no player is in possession the ball is awarded to R. The rule goes on to state that Following an out-of-bounds kick, the ball is put in play at the inbounds spot unless R chooses a spot of first touching.
There is no spot of first touching by K on this play since R was the first to touch the scrimmage kick. On this play the ball will be placed at the inbounds spot which is the 35-yard line.
Answer C. R’s ball at the 35-yard line
Q17
Third and 10 for A from B’s 40-yard line. Player A1 gains 10 yards and is downed on B’s 30. A2 taunts B1 during the run at the 35-yard line. After the penalty is enforced the situation is:
A. A’s ball, 1st and 15 from B’s 45-yard line
B. A’s ball, 2nd and 15 from B’s 45-yard line
C. A’s ball, 1st and 10 from B’s 45-yard line
D. A’s ball, 1st and 20 from the 50-yard line
Another penalty enforcement related question.
This one not only tests your knowledge of determining the basic spot, but also tests your knowledge regarding when a new series is awarded.
The taunting foul is considered non-contact unsportsmanlike conduct (USC) by a player according to Rule 9-5-1 (a) (p. 70). Rule 10-4-5 (a) (p. 76) tells us that the basic spot on USC foul is always the succeeding spot. Since the succeeding spot was B’s 30, the 15 yard penalty for USC will be enforced from that spot.
We’ve determined that A will have the ball on B’s 45 yard line, but has A earned a new series?
5.1.2 SITUATION C in the case book addresses a similar play:
Third and 10 for A from B’s 40-yard line. A1 gains 10 yards and is downed on B’s 30. A2 taunts B1 during the run. RULING: Since the liveball action gave A a new series, the line to gain shall be established after A is penalized for A2’s unsportsmanlike act. It will be first and 10 for A from B’s 45-yard line.
In this play, the live ball action gave A a new series. It will be A’s ball 1st and 10 from B’s 45-yard line.
Answer C. A’s ball, 1st and 10 from B’s 45-yard line
Q18
After the halftime intermission expires, when must the referee start the three-minute mandatory warm-up period?
A. once either team has returned to the field
B. once both teams have returned to the field
C. immediately
D. once either team has started warm-up exercises
While some will debate whether or not this was a rule change or a clarification, the NFHS considers it a 2009 rule change. The change mandated that the clock be started immediately at the conclusion of the half time period.
The mandatory three-minute warm-up period begins immediately following the conclusion of the halftime intermission. The head coach of each team is responsible for his team being on the field for the warm-up period.
The change was to the table in Rule 3-1 (p. 39).
Answer C. immediately
Q19
A period must be extended by an untimed down if, during the last timed down:
A. Team A’s penalty for pass interference was accepted
B. the only penalty during the down was declined
C. the visiting coach’s unsportsmanlike foul was accepted
D. an inadvertent whistle was sounded
Rule 3-3-3 (p. 41) states when a period must be extended by an untimed down. 3-3-3 (c) states that the period must be extended if there was an inadvertent whistle.
Answer D. an inadvertent whistle was sounded
Q20
If a team elects to replay a down following an inadvertent whistle, it must do so from the:
A. inbounds spot if the play ended in a side zone
B. dead-ball spot if the ball became dead between the inbounds lines
C. previous spot
D. result of the play, ignoring the inadvertent whistle
The answer to this question seems self evident on its face. If a team is going to replay a down, one would assume they must do so from the previous spot. That said, it came as a surprise to me that I couldn’t find any backing in the rule book for this common sense ruling.
Since the rule book was silent on the issue, I dove into the case book. Case 3-3-3 SITUATION C (p. 20), when discussing the ruling of a play with an inadvertent whistle, states… “the period shall be extended for an untimed down and A may put the ball in play where it lost possession or it may choose to replay the down from the previous spot”.
Answer C. previous spot
Q21
With 4th and 4 from the 50-yard line, Player A1 runs to B’s 40 and throws an incomplete forward pass. If B accepts the penalty for the illegal forward pass, the situation is:
A. B’s ball, 1st and 10 from the 50-yard line
B. B’s ball, 1st and 10 from B’s 40-yard line
C. A’s ball, 1st and 10 from B’s 40-yard line
D. A’s ball, 1st and 10 from B’s 45-yard line
The enforcement spot for an illegal forward pass is the spot from which the pass is thrown according to Rule 7-5-3 (p. 60). The enforcement spot is B’s 40-yard line so the five yard penalty will result in the ball being placed on B’s 45 yard line. At this point we can deduce that D is the answer since it if the only answer that has the ball place on the correct yard line.
Since the ball is beyond the line to gain (LTG) at the end of the down, A is awarded a new series.
It is important to remember that a loss of down is the loss of the right to replay a down. The loss of down provision has no significance if the line to gain is reached after enforcement.
Answer D. A’s ball, 1st and 10 from B’s 45-yard line
Q22
Team K punts on 4th and 8 from its 30-yard line. K1 attempts to down the kick, but his touching at R’s 32 only slows the ball down. The ball is then picked up by R1 who advances to R’s 45-yard line where he fumbles and K2 recovers and is immediately downed. The correct ruling is:
A. K’s ball, 1st and 10 from R’s 45.
B. R’s ball, 1st and 10 from R’s 32.
C. K’s ball, 1st and 10 from the previous spot.
D. R’s ball, 1st and 10 from R’s 45.
Rule 6-2-5 (p. 54) discusses first touching of the kick by K. The rule states the following:
When any K player touches a scrimmage kick beyond the expanded neutral zone to R’s goal line before it is touched beyond the neutral zone by R and before the ball has come to rest, it is referred to as “first touching of the kick” and the place is the “spot of first touching.” Such touching is ignored if it is caused by R pushing or blocking K into contact with the ball.
If any K player touches a scrimmage kick in this manner, R may take the ball at the spot of first touching, or any spot if there is more than one spot of first touching, or they may choose to have the ball put in play as determined by the action which follows first touching. The right of R to take the ball at spot of first touching by K is canceled if R touches the kick and thereafter during the down commits a foul or if the penalty is accepted for any foul committed during the down.
Under this scenario, K touched the scrimmage kick beyond the expanded neutral zone so first touching of the kick occurred and a spot of first touching at R’s 32 yard line has been established. Since R did not commit a foul after touching the kick and no penalty was accepted for a foul that occurred during the down, R retains the right to take the ball at the spot of first touching or they may elect to put the ball in play as a determined by the action following the first touching.
Since K does have the option to take the ball at the spot or first touching or to put the ball in play as determined by the action following the first touching, I would argue that both A (K’s ball, 1st and 10 from R’s 45) and B (R’s ball, 1st and 10 from R’s 32) are correct rulings depending on the election made by R.
While it is highly unlikely that R would elect to put the ball play as determined by the action following the first touching (thereby giving the ball back to K), they would be well within their right to do so.
When a question has two “technically” correct answers, one must attempt to discern what knowledge the test creator(s) are trying to measure. It is my belief that the creator(s) are trying to ensure that officials know that the right of R to take the ball at the spot of first touching, barring the previous exemptions, is absolute.
Therefore, the most correct answer has to be R’s ball, 1st and 10 from R’s 32.
Answer B. R’s ball, 1st and 10 from R’s 32.
Q23
Regarding scrimmage kicks, which of the following statements is false?
A. a kick recovered beyond the neutral zone may only be advanced by Team R
B. a kick recovered in or behind the neutral zone may be advanced by either team
C. a kick not recovered by either team belongs to Team K
D. a kick jointly recovered by R and K belongs to R
Rule 6-2-2 (p. 53) states that any receiver may catch or recover a scrimmage kick in the field of play and advance, unless it is during a try, or unless any R player has given a valid or invalid fair catch signal. Therefore, A appears to be true.
Rule 6-2-2 (p. 53) combined with Rule 6-2-3 (p. 53) which states that “any K player may catch or recover a scrimmage kick while it is in or behind the neutral zone and advance, unless it is during a try” indicate that B would also be true.
Rule 6-2-7 (p. 54) states that any scrimmage kick that is inbounds anywhere where players are in joint possession is awarded to R. D is also true. Further reading of 6-2-7 shows that C is false. Any ball that becomes dead inbounds between the goal lines with no player in possession is awarded to R.
Answer C. a kick not recovered by either team belongs to Team K
Q24
It is forward pass interference if:
A. contact by Team B is obviously away from the direction of the legal forward pass
B. unavoidable contact occurs when two or more eligible receivers are making a simultaneous, bona fide attempt to move towards, catch, or bat the pass
C. contact by Team A is immediately made on a Team B lineman and the contact does not continue beyond the expanded neutral zone
D. any player hinders an opponent’s vision without making an attempt to catch, intercept or bat the ball, even though no contact was made
Rule 7-5-10 (p. 61) defines forward pass interference. 7-5-10 (b) states:
It is forward-pass interference if any player hinders an opponent’s vision without making an attempt to catch, intercept or bat the ball, even though no contact was made.
Answer D. any player hinders an opponent’s vision without making an attempt to catch, intercept or bat the ball, even though no contact was made
Q25
A simultaneous catch of a forward pass occurs when:
A. the players’ contact with the ground is simultaneous
B. opposing players have simultaneous joint possession
C. Player B83 strips possession of the ball from A88 following a forward pass
D. Player A81 catches the ball inbounds at the same time as B89, who is standing on the sideline
Rule 2-4-3 addresses what constitutes a simultaneous catch.
A simultaneous catch or recovery is a catch or recovery in which there is joint possession of a live ball by opposing players who are inbounds.
Answer B. opposing players have simultaneous joint possession
Q26
Quarterback A1 drops back to pass, but is unable to find a receiver. It is legal for A1 to:
A. throw the ball to the ground at the feet of an oncoming defensive lineman
B. throw a backward pass out-of-bounds
C. throw a forward pass over the head of onrushing defensive lineman with no eligible receivers nearby
D. throw the ball away as long as he is outside either offensive tackle
There are no restrictions on a backward pass. All of the others are specifically prohibited in Rule 7-5-2 (p. 59).
Answer B. throw a backward pass out-of-bounds
Q27
Which of the following is not a multiple foul?
A. A33 is moving forward at the snap and A81 pushes off while running his pass route
B. B60 head slaps A50 and B24 tackles A22 by his facemask
C. A50 holds on a TD run by A21, then, the coach for team A gets an unsportsmanlike penalty
D. A62 holds B50, A62 then blocks B60 below the waist
Rule 2-16-2 (e) (p. 29) defines a multiple foul:
Multiple—two or more live-ball fouls (other than nonplayer or unsportsmanlike) are committed during the same down by the same team at such a time that the offended team is permitted a choice of penalties.
The only option that does not fall under that definition is answer C which is one live ball foul and one non-player unsportsmanlike conduct foul.
Answer C. A50 holds on a TD run by A21, then, the coach for team A gets an unsportsmanlike penalty
Q28
Any questions regarding legality of a player’s equipment shall be resolved by:
A. the Head Coach
B. the Referee
C. the Umpire
D. all officials on the crew are equally responsible
Rule 1-5-4 (p. 22) discusses the procedure for verifying that players are properly equipped and in compliance with the rules and addresses the procedure for resolving questions of legality by the officiating crew. The rule says “any questions regarding legality of a player’s equipment shall be resolved by the umpire”.
Answer C. the Umpire
Q29
Team boxes shall be marked on each side of the field outside the coaches’ area between:
A. the 20 yard lines.
B. the 25 yard lines.
C. the 30 yard lines.
D. the 35 yard lines.
Rule 1-2-3 (p. 12-13) discusses lines and other markings on the football field. 1-2-3 (g) discusses the team boxes specifically and states, “team boxes shall be marked on each side of the field outside the coaches’ area between the 25 yard lines for use by coaches, substitutes, athletic trainers, etc., affiliate with the team”.
Answer B. the 25 yard lines.
Q30
A kicking tee made of pliable material may elevate the ball no more than:
A. 1/2 inch above the ground
B. 1 inch above the ground
C. 2 inches above the ground
D. 3 inches above the ground
Rule 1-3-4 (p. 15) defines a legal kicking tee.
A kicking tee shall be made of pliable material which elevates the lowest point of the ball no more than 2 inches above the ground.
Answer C. 2 inches above the ground
Q31
Touching refers to:
A. stepping on a sideline
B. catching the ball
C. any contact with the ball
D. none of the above
Rule 2-44 defines touching. It is defined as:
Touching refers to any contact with the ball, i.e., either by touching or being touched by it. Touching by an official in the field of play or end zone is ignored.
Answer C. any contact with the ball
Q32
The spot where a run ends is:
A. where the ball becomes dead in the runner’s possession
B. where the runner loses player possession if his run is followed by a loose ball
C. the spot of the catch or recovery when the momentum rule is in effect
D. all of the above
Rule 10-3-3 (p. 76) discusses when a run ends. There are three criteria for determining the end of a run: where the ball becomes dead in the runner’s possession, where the runner loses possession if his run is followed by a loose ball and the spot of the catch or recovery when the momentum rule is in effect.
Answer D. all of the above
Q33
The snap ends when:
A. the ball touches the ground
B. the ball touches any player
C. both A and B
D. none of the above
Rule 2-40-3 (p. 37) discusses when the snap ends. It states that the snap ends when the ball touches the ground of any player. Since both A & B are true, he answer in this case is C.
Answer C. both A and B
Q34
A Coach-Referee conference must be held:
A. in front of the team box and on the field of play.
B. in the team box.
C. anywhere on the field of play.
D. at the 50 yard line in the center of the field.
Rule 2-6 (p. 26-27) defines both Coach-Referee and authorized team conferences. Rule 2-6-1 (p. 26), in particular, discusses Coach-Referee conferences. The rule states that the referee confers with the coach at the sideline in front of his team box in the field of play.
Answer A. in front of the team box and on the field of play.
Q35
Batting is intentionally slapping or striking the ball with (sic)
A. with the helmet.
B. with the arm or hand.
C. with the arm or hand or leg.
D. any part of the player’s body.
Batting is defined in Rule 2-2 (p. 24). It is defined as “intentionally slapping or striking the ball with the arm or hand”.
Answer B. with the arm or hand.
Q36
A substitute becomes a player when he enters the field and:
A. communicates with a teammate or official
B. enters a huddle
C. is positioned in a formation
D. all of the above
Rule 2-32-15 discusses when a substitute becomes a player.
A substitute becomes a player when he enters the field and communicates with a teammate or an official, enters the huddle, is positioned in a formation or participates in the play.
Since A, B & C are all correct; the answer is D.
Answer D. all of the above
Q37
K1′s kickoff is caught by R1 and returned to R’s 30. While the kick is in flight, R2 blocks K1 below the waist at R’s 40. The penalty is accepted by K. The correct ruling is:
A. K will rekick from R’s 45 and the clock will start on the ready for play signal
B. R’s ball 1st and 10 at R’s 20 and the clock starts on the ready for play signal
C. K will rekick from R’s 45 and the clock will start when the kick is touched other than first touching by K
D. R’s ball 1st and 10 at R’s 30 and the clock starts with the snap
As with any enforcement related question, we must first determine the basic stop to determine from where the penalty should be assessed. This foul occurred during a loose ball play as defined in Rule 2-33 (a) (p. 35). It states, “a loose ball play is action during a free kick or scrimmage kick other than post scrimmage kick fouls”. The basic spot for a loose ball play is the previous spot according to 10-4-2 (b) (p. 76). Since blocking below the waist if a 15 yard penalty that in this case will be assessed from K’s 40 yard line, K will rekick from R’s 45.
We are half way to our answer, but now we must determine the clock status. The case book has a play that addresses this specific question 3.4.2 SITUATION B (p. 23).
K1’s kickoff is caught by R1 and returned to R’s 30. While the kick is in flight, R2 blocks K2 below the waist on R’s 40. RULING: If the penalty is declined, R will have the ball first and 10 on R’s 30. Since the clock is stopped for a new series following a legal kick, the clock will start with the snap. If the penalty is accepted, K will rekick from R’s 45. The clock will start when the kick is touched other than first touching by K. When a free kick down is replayed, the clock will start the same as it does on the original free kick. (3-4-1, 3)
The clock will start when the kick is touches other than first touching by R.
Answer C. K will rekick from R’s 45 and the clock will start when the kick is touched other than first touching by K
Q38
K1′s punt on 4th and 10 is from his own 20 yard line. The kick is high and short. R1 gives a valid (fair catch) signal beyond the neutral zone and muffs the kick. The ball rebounds behind the neutral zone where K1 recovers the ball at his 15 yard line and advances to his 18 yard line. The correct ruling is:
A. K may not advance a muff by R; K’s ball 1st and 10 at K’s 15 yard line.
B. legal advance by K1; K’s ball 1st and 10 from their 18 yard line.
C. K relinquished possession by kicking on fourth down; R’s ball 1st and 10 from K’s 18 yard line.
D. legal advance by K1, but he did not reach the line to gain (LTG); R’s ball 1st and 10 from K’s 18 yard line.
This is one of the more complicated questions on the exam. It has quite a bit of action and tests several knowledge areas that may or may not come into play including, but not limited to, when a kick ends, who can advance scrimmage kicks muffed by R, advancement of scrimmage kicks recovered behind the line of scrimmage (LOS), achievement of the LTG, who is awarded a new series when the down ends, etc.
First, we need to decide if the advance by K was legal.
Rule 6-2-3 (p. 53) states that any K player may catch or recover a scrimmage kick (that is not a try) and advance if the scrimmage kick is caught or recovered while it is in or behind the neutral zone.
Rule 6-2-4 (p. 53-54) states that any K player may catch or recover a scrimmage kick while it is beyond the neutral zone or neutral zone expanded provided that the kick has been touched by a receiver who was clearly beyond the neutral zone at the time of touching (provided that the receiver was not pushed or blocked into the ball and that the ball was not legally batted or muffed into R). A recovery by R in this situation results in a dead ball.
In this situation you have a kick beyond the LOS, that was muffed by R. The muffed ball was recovered by K behind the LOS and advanced.
Which rule applies? The comment added to 6.2.3 SITUATION A (p. 42) makes the answer crystal clear.
The right of the K to advance their recovered scrimmage kick depends entirely upon whether the kick is recovered in, behind or beyond the neutral zone. The fact that the kick went beyond the neutral zone and then rebounded behind it is of no consequence. If the recovery is in or behind the neutral zone, K may advance.
Next, we need to determine who will be awarded a new series.
Rule 5-1-3 (p. 49) discusses who a new series is awarded to when a scrimmage down end with the ball in the field of play or out of bounds between the goal lines. 5-1-3 (f) says that the team in possession at the end of the down will be awarded a new series if R is the first to touch a scrimmage kick while it is beyond the expanded neutral zone, unless the penalty is accepted for a non post-scrimmage kick fouled which occurred before the kick ended or unless 6-2-7 applies.
Rule 6-2-7 (p. 54) discusses scrimmage kicks that become dead in bounds with no one in possession, kicks that go out of bounds between the goal lines and kicks that are jointly possessed in the field of play.
Since no non post-scrimmage kick penalty was accepted and 6-2-7 does not apply, the team in possession at the end of the down (K
Answer B. legal advance by K1; K’s ball 1st and 10 from their 18 yard line.
Q39
A free kick shall put the ball in play:
A. after a safety.
B. when a free kick down is replayed.
C. both A and B.
D. none of the above.
Rule 4-1-2 (p. 46) indicates when a ball should be put in play via free kick. Rule 4-1-2 (a) states that there will be a free kick after a safety and Rule 4-1-2 (b) states that a free kick will take place when a free kick down is replayed. Therefore, both A and B are correct.
Answer C. both A and B.
Q40
What must occur for Team K to execute a legal scrimmage kick?
A. team K must be in legal scrimmage kick formation
B. the scrimmage kick must be completed beyond the neutral zone
C. the scrimmage kick occurs after team possession has changed
D. the scrimmage kick must occur behind the neutral zone
There is no requirement that team K must be in a legal scrimmage kick formation to execute a legal scrimmage kick according to Rule 6-2-1 (p. 53).
K may punt, drop kick or place kick from in or behind the neutral zone before team possession has changed.It is not necessary to be in a scrimmage kick formation to execute a legal scrimmage kick. K may not punt, drop kick or place kick from beyond the neutral zone. R may not punt, drop kick or place kick.
Answer D. the scrimmage kick must occur behind the neutral zone
Q41
A touchback occurs when:
A. a scrimmage kick ends in Team R’s end zone
B. a free kick breaks Team R’s goal line
C. a three point field goal attempt in flight touches a Team K player in Team R’s end zone
D. all of the above
Rule 6-3 (p. 54) discusses what constitues a touchback.
According to 6-3-1 (a), it is a touchback if any free kick or scrimmage kick which is not a scoring attempt or which is a grounded three-point field-goal attempt breaks the plane of R’s goal line. Based on that definition both A and B are correct.
According to 6-3-1 (b), it is a touchback if any free kick or scrimmage kick with is a three-point field-goal attempt in flight touches a K player in R’s end zone. Answer C is also correct.
Therefore, the answer is all of the above.
Answer D. all of the above
Q42
A request for measurement may be granted when:
A. requested by a captain prior to the ball being marked ready for play
B. after the ball has been reset following a play that ended outside of the hash marks
C. requested by the captain after the ball has been marked ready for play
D. requested by a coach
Rule 5-3-2 [NOTE] (p. 51) states that “a measurement may be requested by the captain prior to the ball being marked ready for play, but it may be denied if, in the referee’s opinion, it is obvious the line to gain has or has not been reached”.
Answer A. requested by a captain prior to the ball being marked ready for play
Q43
Which of these offensive linemen may be in the neutral zone at the snap?
A. end
B. tackle
C. guard
D. center/snapper
Rule 7-1-5 addresses this particular question.
No player, other than the snapper, shall encroach on the neutral zone after the ball is marked ready for play by touching the ball or an opponent or by being in the neutral zone to give defensive signals.
Answer D. center/snapper
Q44
Barring exception, at least how many A players must be numbered 50-79 at the snap?
A. 4
B. 5
C. 6
D. 7
Rule 7-2-5 (p. 58) discusses player formation and player numbering requirements. 7-4-5 (b) states that barring exception there must be at least 5 players on the line of scrimmage numbered 50-79 at the snap.
Answer B. 5
Q45
A complete pass is a pass
A. caught by an ineligible receiver
B. which touches the ground
C. which goes out of bounds
D. possessed by a player in the air who first lands out of bounds
Rule 7-5-4 is used to determine whether or not a pass is complete. The rule states that “a forward pass, legal or illegal, is complete and the ball may be advanced when caught by any player of A or B”.
Answer A. caught by an ineligible receiver
Q46
The score for a forfeited game ending in a tie is
A. 1-0
B. 3-0
C. 6-0
D. 7-0
Scoring is addressed in the chart in Rule 8-1 (p 64). Unless the offended team is ahead, A forfeited game is scored as follows: offended team 1, opponent 0. If the offended team is ahead the existing score stands. In this case the game is tied so the final score will be 1-0.
Answer A. 1-0
Q47
A56 pulls A33 to assist in his forward progress. What is the foul?
A. helping the runner.
B. illegal use of the hands.
C. illegal participation.
D. none of the above.
Rule 9-1 (p. 67) addresses helping the runner. The section states that “an offensive player shall not push, pull or lift the runner to assist his forward progress”.
Answer A. helping the runner.
Q48
All fouls are enforced from the basic spot except for those fouls which occur where?
A. out of bounds
B. defensive fouls in the end zone
C. fouls outside the free blocking zone
D. fouls by the offense behind the basic spot during a loose ball play or running play
Rule 10-6 (p. 77) discusses the all-but-one principle.
Unless otherwise listed in Section 4 and 5, a penalty for a foul occurring during a play is enforced from the basic spot with the exception of a foul by the offense which occurs behind the basic spot during a loose ball play or running play. This particular foul is enforced from the spot of the foul.
Answer D. fouls by the offense behind the basic spot during a loose ball play or running play
Q49
If the offensive team throws an illegal pass from its end zone or commits any other foul for which the penalty is accepted and measurement is from on or behind its goal line, what is the result?
A. Touchback
B. Safety
C. Touchdown
D. First down for the defense
Rule 8-5-2 (p. 66-67) discusses what constitues a safety. 8-5-2 (c) states the following:
A player on offense commits any foul for which the penalty is accepted and enforcement is from a spot in his end zone; or throws an illegal forward pass from his end zone and the penalty is declined in a situation which leaves him in possession at the spot of the illegal pass and with the ball having been forced into the end zone by the passing team.
Since the offense committed a foul for which the penalty was accepted and its measurement was from on or behind A’s goal line, the result is a safety.
Answer B. Safety
Q50
How far outside the sideline opposite the press box must the official line-to-gain and down indicators be operated, unless space does not permit?
A. 2 yards.
B. 3 yards.
C. 4 yards.
D. 5 yards.
Rule 1-3-5 (p. 15-16) discusses the required line-to-gain equipment and down indicator. 1-3-5 (b) states that the official line-to-gain and down indicators shall be operated approximately 2 yards outside the sideline opposite the press box, except in stadiums where the total playing enclosure does not permit.
Answer A. 2 yards.
