Rule 5 – Section 1 – Article 3 – Forward Progress

a. The most forward point of the ball when declared dead between the end lines shall be the determining point in measuring distance gained or lost by either team during any down

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(Exceptions:

1. Rule 8-5-1. (A.R. 8-5-1:I)
2. When an airborne pass receiver of either team completes a catch inbounds after an opponent has driven him backward and the ball is declared dead at the spot of the catch, the forward progress is where the player received the ball.
   The ball always shall be placed with its length axis parallel to the sideline before measuring (Rule 4-1-3-p). (A.R. 5-1-3:I, III, IV and VI) (A.R. 7-3-6:V))