FidelisHawk
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- Dec 3, 2009
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253hawk":3ebu5kz6 said:C'mon six...
Wilson could have literally been at walking speed and thrown it exactly parallel to his body (ensuring the maximum 'forward potential' of the ball) and it still would be a forward pass according to the letter of the rule. Even if Usain Bolt did the same while running at full speed, the ball is only going to go 'forward' a few yards at best -- hardly any kind of advantage considering the risk involved.
This actually emphasises the key points in our little debate:
If Wilson had “been at walking speed and thrown it exactly parallel” the play would have been, most likely, challenged, called illegal, or both. Review would be needed to see if the ball was indeed touched even or behind his release position and the hash marks, if available, would definitively make that decision or the play would stand as called.
On the other hand, if the rule were to be changed the referee, either on the field or in NY, would have to make a determination if Wilson indeed “lateraled even” regardless where he release the ball or the second player touched it.