Offensive backfield

The offensive backfield is a field area behind line scrimmage. It’s a starting point for all players standing far from the offensive linemen. These are quarterback, halfback, fullback and eligible receivers. The kickers, holders and punters also operate there.

The ball carriers use offensive backfield to protect themselves. Any tackling is prohibited there. Violators get yardage loss and reset down counter to the first. Another rule declares the maximum four players in offensive backfield who must stand at least 1 yard from the O-line. The quarterback has no limits in the distance covered with the ball. However, if it works in tackle box (the space between tackles), the quarterback must throw the ball in direction of the line of scrimmage to avoid the intentional grounding foul.