Why do they call it a Pass Interference when it's really a Catch Interference????

Question

Sure, some would argue; it's an interference of the completion of a pass. But it's no longer a pass, the QB has already passed the ball out of his hand, now the DB is really interfering with the receiver, whose job is to catch. Therefore, I think we should petition the NFL to change it to Catch Interference. What do you think?

Answer 1

Nope, it's pass interference. It's not a catch, because the catch wasn't made. It's still a pass.

Answer 2

The fact that the quarterback is passing the ball is what makes it a pass, and since he's obviously not trying to pass it to a member of the opposing team, it is therefore a pass interference. Even when the ball leaves the QB's hands, it's still a pass, because it is being passed to the runningback or wide receiver. It doesn't stop being a pass just because the ball is in the air and hasn't yet made it to the next player.

Answer 3

Sorry, your logic is incorrect...if it's no longer a pass because it's out of the qb's hand then how could it be a catch when it hasn't even touched another players hand....it's still just a pass/throw till another recieves/catches it at that point becoming a completion or catch. The ruling on the field stands!! It's pass interference and you are penalized 10 yards for illogical behavior and general silliness.

Answer 4

Passing requires two operations for accomplishment: The QB throws, then the receiver catches. Until the catch is made it is still a pass. Therefore, the penalty is named correctly. It is pass interference.

Answer 5

Because your interfering with a pass play.

Answer 6

No catch interference sounds stupid and besides why change tradition.

Answer 7

Yes..