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No, I think maybe you haven't watched as much football as I have. You obviously don't understand the rules. You also don't understand the implications of your own writing.

I understand that a touchback cannot occur when team defending the end zone in which the ball goes out of bounds last has possession. In that case, it is a safety. I have seen many, many plays over the years where a team fumbles the ball deep in its own territory, and a mad scramble ensues, in which both teams touch the ball, but none gain control. Even if the defensive player last touches the ball, so long as he does not have possession it is a safety.

Now, as for the punt example you cited, under your definition of "impetus" it clearly should be a touchback, yet it is not, as you have cited. Please explain how this is any different than the play in question.

I think maybe you haven't watched as much football as I have.

You think lots of things.

But maybe they are not always correct. I started going to Giants games when the Giants were playing in the Polo Grounds. I attended the '56 Championship game where the Gaints beat the Bears 47-7. I was there when Summerall kicked the 49 yard field goal in the snow against the Browns. (And I can tell you what the first play in that game was.) I know who Chris Schenkel and Johnny Lujack were, and why I might mention them here.

ML/NJ