Official NFL Rules on Intentional Grounding

In the National Football League, many rules have been made to protect the quarterback. However, one longstanding rule that actually favors the defense is the one that penalizes the offense if the QB illegally throws the ball away to avoid defensive pressure. The official NFL rules call this intentional grounding.

Definition

Intentional grounding is a penalty called when the quarterback, while under pressure from the defense and facing a possible sack, throws a forward pass that cannot realistically be completed.

Explanation

Essentially, this means that if the quarterback throws the ball to avoid a sack, there must be an eligible receiver in the vicinity. Otherwise, his team will be penalized.

Exceptions

The quarterback is allowed to throw the football away provided he is out of the pocket (or tackle box) and the pass travels to or beyond the line of scrimmage, even if there is no potential receiver in the immediate area.

Penalties

If a team is flagged for intentional grounding, the result of the play is a 10-yard penalty (or a spot foul, depending upon which is longer) and a loss of down.

Safeties

If the quarterback is standing in the end zone when he throws the illegal pass, the play will result in a safety and two points will be awarded to the opposing team.