Goal Line &

End Line

By Matt Fitzgerald

Rule 4 – Ball In Play, Dead Ball, OOB• Two editorial changes related to forward progress:

• Forward progress for ball carrier OOB in the field of play (4-2-4-d)• Forward progress for ball carrier at the goal line

– Goal line plane redefined (2-12-2)– Definition of TD (4-2-4-b, 8-2-1-a)

Goal line no longer extends for most situations

Ball carrier from field of play must either:1) Get ball inside pylon, or2) Have ball touch pylon or

go over the top of pylon

If runner kept ball on the outside, goal line doesn’t extend.

Ruling identical for runner on his feet or airborne (dives or contact by opponent)

Two exceptions when goal line does extend:1) Ball breaks goal line extended

prior to ball carrier touching the pylon

2) Ball carrier touches the ground in the end zone

Airborne ball carrier can touch pylon with any part of the body (e.g. hand, arm, leg, foot)

Goal Line Mechanics

SJ

Back off pylon & widen you view.

Bring the play to the goal line.

Take the play from 1 yard line.

Come off the goal line when you know it is not threatened.

Red zone stay with keys.

Pace – go slow Follow players with

eyes. Do not chase.

SJ

End Line Mechanics

Back Off Pylon Split the difference

or sideline extended Touchbacks &

Safeties – Give the TO signal first.

Get off the Pylon

Good Position

U

HL

R

LJ

BJ

SJ

FJ

Pre-snapPart 1of 2

U

HL

R

LJ

BJ

SJ

FJ

QB in pocketPart 2 of 2

Where are the areas of responsibility and

threat for foul?

SJ

FJ

BJ

Pre-Snap Key LJ

BJ