NFL OT Question

I was talking to someone about the OT rules this morning and we couldn't agree on this scenario. I figured this is as good a place as any to inquire.

Let's say the ATL-SEA went to OT. SEA has first possession and kicks a FG. ATL drives downfield and throws a pick - instead of going down, the defender inexplicably tries returning and subsequently fumbles, and ATL recovers in FG range.

Isn't the game over? Doesn't the pick qualify as a change of possession and end the game, regardless of the fact that ATL recovered the ball? Or does ATL still get a crack at scoring?

A change of possession occurs with the legal interception. Even if it is subsequently fumbled, the opposition would not be awarded a second possession. Game over. But that defender should still be benched.

ottawahawkfan":zrnjry98 said:

A change of possession occurs with the legal interception. Even if it is subsequently fumbled, the opposition would not be awarded a second possession. Game over.

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I agree with the above... good question.

The key is "change of possession" occurs with the INT.

Game over. Possession changed.

hawksfan515":6l4n6efa said:

Game over. Possession changed.

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4 minutes later... lolz

Thanks, guys

what if the team intercepts fumbles.........other guy returns the fumble recovery for a TD........ they still lost?

mikeak":bd56vh5y said:

what if the team intercepts fumbles.........other guy returns the fumble recovery for a TD........ they still lost?

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Great point, mikeak. I guess the biggest question is whether the interception counts as the change of possession or if the change of possession actually occurs when the play is over. We all seemed to agree that the interception is the turning point, but your followup has certainly reintroduced doubt.

Per the below I guess play should be dead at point of interception. This would be fun in real life

http://www.nfl.com/news/story/09000d5d8 ... time-rules