Can the Running Back Throw the Ball After Picking Up a Fumbled QB?
In the realm of football, particularly in American and Canadian football, the outcome of a fumbled ball can often be dramatic. One of the most intriguing scenarios is when a running back picks up a fumbled ball by the quarterback, and then decides to throw a forward pass. This article will explore the rules surrounding this situation and provide clarity on whether such an action is permissible.
The Rules in Detail
Moving the Ball
When the quarterback fumbles the ball, it can be recovered by any player who is behind the line of scrimmage at the time of the recovery. Once the running back (RB) picks up the ball, they must not advance the ball past the line of scrimmage if they wish to attempt a forward pass. This is because a forward pass must be thrown from behind the line of scrimmage.
As stated in the NFL rules and guidelines, any offensive player can throw a forward pass after recovering a fumbled ball, provided the football has not been advanced beyond the line of scrimmage at any point during the play. If the RB picks up the ball and then moves forward to advance the ball, it would result in an illegal forward pass if thrown from beyond the line of scrimmage.
Legal Forward Passes
The RB can legally attempt a forward pass as long as they are behind the line of scrimmage and the ball has not been advanced. For instance, if the RB recovers the ball and stays behind the line to throw a forward pass, this would be a legal play.
It is also important to note that if the RB is in the process of grounding the ball (simulating a fumble) and then attempts to pass it, it would be considered an illegal forward pass, as the ball has already been deemed dead by the grounding action. This would result in a loss of down for the offense.
Common Scenarios
Backward Passes
When the RB recovers a fumbled ball, they can also attempt a backward pass. According to the rules, any player can throw a backward pass at any time, including when recovering a fumbled ball. This differs from a forward pass, which must be thrown from behind the line of scrimmage.
Missed Calls and Rule Clarifications
There have been instances where the ruling on such plays has been controversial. For example, in a major college football championship game in Texas, a missed call led to an illegal forward pass. The quarterback/holder grounded the ball and then passed it when on their knee. While rules permit a forward pass on the knee in some situations, grounding the ball first and then passing it is not allowed, leading to an illegal forward pass and a lost down.
Conclusion
Understanding the nuances of football rules is crucial for coaches, players, and spectators alike. When a quarterback fumbles and a running back recovers the ball, the RB can legally attempt a forward pass as long as they remain behind the line of scrimmage and the ball has not been advanced. Conversely, if the RB advances the ball for any reason before throwing, the pass would be illegal.
For a detailed and comprehensive understanding of football rules, players and coaches are encouraged to consult the official NFL rulebook and other reputable sources.