a. If an inbounds player of the receiving team is located where they could catch a punt that has crossed the neutral zone, and if the player is attempting to do so, they must be given an unimpeded opportunity to catch the kick. b. It is an interference foul if, before the receiver touches the ball, a Team A player enters the area defined by the width of the receiver’s shoulders and extends one yard in front of them. When in question it is a foul. c. This protection ends when the kick touches the ground or when any player of Team B muffs or touches a punt beyond the neutral zone. d. If interference with a potential receiver is the result of a player being contacted by an opponent, it is not a foul.
PENALTY – Dead-ball for delay of game. Five yards from the succeeding spot. [S27]
