Interference

What is the Definition of Interference in American Football?

Interference in American football is an important aspect of the game that can greatly impact the outcome of plays. Two types of interferences can occur during a game: blocking, and pass interference. Blocking, or running interference, involves a player using their body to obstruct an opponent’s path legally. This is usually done by offensive players to prevent defensive players from tackling the ball carrier or to protect the quarterback during a play.

On the other hand, pass interference is a specific type of foul that occurs when a player hinders an eligible receiver’s ability to fairly attempt a forward pass catch. Pass interference can be committed by both the offensive and defensive teams, and it might result in penalties, influencing the game’s flow and momentum. Understanding the different types of interference and the rules surrounding them is essential for players, coaches, and fans to fully appreciate the strategic aspects of American football.

Key Takeaways

• Two main types of interference include blocking and pass interference
• Interference plays a critical role in a team’s offensive and defensive strategies
• Penalties come into play when a pass interference is committed, impacting plays and outcomes

Types of Interference

Offensive Interference

Offensive interference occurs when a player from the offensive team uses his body to impede a defensive player’s ability to fairly attempt to catch a forward pass. Examples of offensive interference include:

• Physically moving the defensive player out of their intended coverage path.
• Initiating contact that restricts the defensive player’s movement or vision.

It is important to note that some contact between opposing players is permissible, as long as it does not hinder the defensive player’s opportunity to make a play on the ball.

Defensive Interference

Defensive interference takes place when a player from the defensive team interferes with an eligible receiver’s ability to make a fair attempt to catch a forward pass. This foul can only occur when the pass is thrown from behind the line of scrimmage, whether the pass is legal or illegal, or crosses the line. Some examples of illegal plays include:

• Grabbing or holding the receiver’s arm.
• Extending an arm across the receiver’s body to create separation.
• Pushing or shoving the receiver out of their intended path.

Defensive pass interference rules apply from the time the ball is thrown until it is touched, and both offensive and defensive players should be given a fair opportunity to catch the ball.

Common Situations Leading to Interference

In American football, interference refers to the act of illegally obstructing or hindering an opponent’s ability to play the ball. In this section, we will discuss common situations leading to interference during pass plays, kickoff, and punt returns.

Pass Plays

Pass interference can only occur when a forward pass is thrown from behind the line of scrimmage. Defensive pass interference rules apply from the time the ball is thrown until the ball is touched. Some actions considered as pass interference include:

• Preventing an opponent’s opportunity to catch a pass by grabbing or holding their arm
• Playing through the back of an opponent to knock the ball away, without playing the ball
• Cutting off the path of an opponent to the ball by making contact with them, without attempting to catch the ball

On the other hand, offensive pass interference occurs when an offensive player tries to create an unfair advantage by (illegally) initiating contact with a defender. Some examples include:

• Blocking downfield before the ball is caught
• Pushing off a defender to gain separation
• Screening off a defender, preventing them from catching the ball

Kickoff and Punt Returns

Interference can also occur during kickoff and punt returns. In these situations, the kicking team must allow the receiving team an opportunity to catch the ball. Two common types of interference penalties in such plays are:

• Kick catch interference: This occurs when a member of the kicking team impedes a receiver’s ability to catch the ball or makes contact with them before they catch the kick. The penalty for this interference is 15 yards from the spot of the foul, or where the ball was first touched by the receiving team.
• Blocking in the back (or below the waist): This occurs when a player from the receiving team blocks a member of the kicking team in the back or below the waist during a kick return. This type of interference is penalized by moving the receiving team back 10 yards from the spot of the foul.

These common situations leading to interference result from players attempting to gain an advantage or disrupt the opponent’s ability to play the ball. Understanding these scenarios can help to better appreciate the strategic aspects of American football and foster a deeper appreciation of the game’s rules.

Penalties for Interference

Yardage Penalties

In American Football, interference penalties can result in significant yardage being assessed against the offending team. Defensive pass interference (DPI) usually results in the ball being placed at the spot of the foul. If the interference occurs in the end zone, the ball is placed at the 1-yard line. Offensive pass interference (OPI) typically results in a 10-yard penalty from the previous spot of the ball.

Loss of Down

An offensive pass interference penalty also carries the consequence of a loss of down for the offending team. This means that the offense loses the opportunity to attempt another play on that respective down, effectively moving them one step closer to having to punt or turn over the ball to the opposing team.

Automatic First Down

Conversely, when a team commits defensive pass interference, the opposing team is automatically awarded a first down. This can be particularly crucial in situations where the defensive team was close to stopping the offense or if the penalty occurs on a crucial third or fourth down play, where the offense might have otherwise had to surrender possession of the ball.

Strategies to Avoid Interference

Proper Technique

Developing proper technique is crucial in preventing interference penalties. One key aspect is maintaining hand placement within the legal zone, which is the opponent’s chest area for defenders. Hands should not be on the opponent’s back or neck, as this could result in a penalty. Additionally, maintaining visual contact with the ball will help both players make a clean play. Practice these techniques to become more comfortable in high-pressure situations and avoid interference calls.

Awareness of Opponents

Being aware of your opponent’s position and movements is essential in avoiding interference penalties. This includes understanding their tendencies, such as if they have a specific handoff technique or preferred area on the field. By studying your opponent, you will be better prepared to anticipate and react to their moves during a game. Furthermore, using communication with teammates, either through verbal cues or hand signals, can assist in coordinating defensive efforts to prevent interference calls.

Playing Within the Rules

Finally, it is essential for players to always play within the established rules of the game. Familiarize yourself with the guidelines that govern pass interference, including knowing when prohibited acts can occur and the consequences of these actions. This will not only help you avoid interference penalties but will also enable you to play more confidently and effectively on the field.

By adhering to proper technique, being aware of your opponents, and playing within the rules, you can significantly reduce the chances of interference penalties, allowing you to put forth a strong performance during any game.