What is the rule on pass interference?

By Jason Bolton December 14, 2023 06:37

n the game of American football, pass interference is one of the most controversial and often game-changing penalties. It occurs when a defensive player interferes with an eligible receiver's ability to make a catch on a forward pass. The rule on pass interference is designed to ensure fair play and maintain a level playing field between the offense and defense. In this article, we will explore the various aspects of the pass interference rule, including its definition, types, enforcement, and recent changes.

Definition of Pass Interference

Pass interference is a penalty that occurs when a defensive player interferes with a receiver's ability to make a catch on a forward pass. The interference can take different forms, such as physically impeding the receiver's movement, holding or grabbing the receiver's jersey, or making contact before the ball arrives.

The key element in determining pass interference is whether the defender's actions hinder the receiver's opportunity to make a catch. If the actions of the defender significantly affect the receiver's ability to catch the ball, it is likely to be considered pass interference.

Types of Pass Interference

There are two main types of pass interference: offensive pass interference and defensive pass interference.

Offensive Pass Interference: Offensive pass interference occurs when an offensive player interferes with a defensive player's ability to make a play on the ball. This can include pushing off the defender, blocking the defender's path, or impeding their ability to jump or make a play on the ball.
Defensive Pass Interference: Defensive pass interference occurs when a defensive player interferes with a receiver's ability to make a catch. This can include holding the receiver, impeding their ability to run their route, or making contact before the ball arrives.

Enforcement of Pass Interference

Pass interference penalties can be enforced differently depending on the level of play. In the National Football League (NFL), the penalty results in an automatic first down for the offense, with the ball being placed at the spot of the foul. The NFL also allows for a maximum of a 15-yard penalty if the interference occurs more than 15 yards downfield from the line of scrimmage.

In college football, defensive pass interference results in an automatic first down, with the ball being placed at the spot of the foul. However, offensive pass interference results in a loss of down as well as a 15-yard penalty.

Challenges in Enforcing Pass Interference

Enforcing pass interference can be challenging for officials due to the subjective nature of the penalty. Determining whether a player's actions significantly hindered the receiver's ability to make a catch can be open to interpretation.

In recent years, there have been discussions about introducing more replay reviews for pass interference calls. In the NFL, a one-year experiment was conducted in 2019, allowing coaches to challenge pass interference calls or non-calls. However, the experiment did not yield the desired results, and the rule was not extended beyond the 2019 season.

Recent Changes to the Pass Interference Rule

In 2019, the NFL introduced a new rule that allowed for pass interference calls and non-calls to be reviewed via instant replay. This rule change was prompted by a controversial missed pass interference call in the 2018 NFC Championship Game between the Los Angeles Rams and the New Orleans Saints.

However, the implementation of the rule proved to be challenging. Many calls that appeared to be clear instances of pass interference were not overturned upon review, leading to frustration among players, coaches, and fans. As a result, the rule was not extended beyond the 2019 season, and pass interference remains a non-reviewable call in the NFL.

Pass interference is an essential rule in football that aims to ensure fair play and maintain a level playing field between the offense and defense. It is a penalty that occurs when a defensive player interferes with a receiver's ability to make a catch on a forward pass. The enforcement of pass interference can vary depending on the level of play, with the NFL and college football having different rules.

While pass interference can be a subjective call, efforts have been made to introduce more replay reviews for pass interference calls. However, the implementation of such rules has proven challenging, and pass interference remains a non-reviewable call in the NFL.

Despite the challenges in enforcing and reviewing pass interference, the rule continues to play a significant role in the game of football, often determining the outcome of critical plays and games.