Section 4 Backward Pass and Fumble
Article 1
A runner may pass backward at any time (3-21-4).
(a) An offensive player may catch a backward pass or recover it after the pass touches
the ground and advance.
(b) A defensive player may catch a backward pass or recover it after the pass touches
the ground and advance.
Note: A direct snap from center is treated as a backward pass. A muffed hand-to-hand
snap from center is treated as a fumble by the quarterback
Article 1
A runner may pass backward at any time (3-21-4).
(a) An offensive player may catch a backward pass or recover it after the pass touches
the ground and advance.
(b) A defensive player may catch a backward pass or recover it after the pass touches
the ground and advance.
Note: A direct snap from center is treated as a backward pass. A muffed hand-to-hand
snap from center is treated as a fumble by the quarterback