Definitions

Article 1 – Line of Scrimmage

The line of scrimmage is an imaginary line, extending from sideline to sideline, parallel to the goal line and passing through the point of the ball farthest from Team A's goal line.

Article 2 – Neutral Zone

The neutral zone is the area from the line of scrimmage to 1 yard (1 metre) in advance of the line of scrimmage, extending from sideline to sideline.

Article 3 – Close Line Play Area

The close line play area is defined as the area bounded by the outer shoulder of the offensive tight ends or positions ordinarily occupied by the tight end, within 2 yards either side of the line of scrimmage (Total 4 yards – 4 metres).

Article 4 – Line and Backfield

Line players of team A are those players whose head and shoulders are within 1 yard (1 metre) and on their own side of the line of scrimmage and are formed in a single line when the ball is snapped.

Line players include the 5 ineligible receivers and the two eligible receivers, one at each end.

Any Team A player(s) in the backfield, while moving forward, anywhere between the eligible end(s) and tackle(s), shall also be considered eligible receiver(s) as long as they remain onside at the time the ball is snapped.

This will include the player occupying the position of quarterback.

No stationary player of Team A shall be in a position that will create doubt as to whether they are on the line or in the backfield when the ball is snapped.

Note: A player in a doubtful position may be penalized under this rule as an ineligible pass receiver – as applicable.

Article 5 – Penalty Application

Where a violation under Rule 4 occurs prior to the snap of the ball, the officials are empowered to stop the play immediately. The penalty distance may be declined, but the down will be repeated, without option, at the appropriate point, after the acceptance or declination of the penalty distance. (Exception: Rule 8, Section 3, Article 3(a) (Restrictions Near Goal Line))

Article 6 – Blocking below the Waist Zone

Blocking below the waist zone is defined as an area bounded by the outer shoulder of the offensive tight ends or the positions ordinarily occupied by the tight end, within 2 yards of the defensive side of the line of scrimmage extending back to the initial position of the quarterback, running back (in normal position) or kicker.