(Editor’s Note: NCAA Rules)

Defensive pass interference is one of the toughest calls in football. It seems the rules have been written to favor the offense and make it tougher on the defense. To have a sporting chance the defensive player must be assured that the official has observed ALL SEVEN of the aspects of the definition before the call is made.

These seven aspects are:

• Obvious CONTACT by team B player beyond the neutral zone;

• Pass is a LEGAL forward pass;

• Pass CROSSES the neutral zone;

• Team B makes an obvious attempt to IMPEDE an ELIGIBLE receiver;

• Contact occurs while the ball is IN THE AIR;

• Pass must be UNTOUCHED prior to the contact;

• Must be a CATCHABLE pass by the receiver who is contacted.

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