Illegal Forward Pass Penalty in Football

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What is a Illegal Forward Pass Penalty?

An Illegal Forward Pass Penalty is called when a player throws the ball forward once they are past the line of scrimmage. This can be the quarterback or any other player. This penalty can also be called if two forward passes are thrown on one play, even though they are both behind the line of scrimmage.

Number of Yards

There is a 5 yard penalty from the spot of the foul and the offense loses a down in both the NFL and College Football.

The Signal

When signaling the Illegal Forward Pass penalty the referee will place one arm behind their back with an open hand. Starting at the lower back the hand/forearm will move up and down.