Is a live ball considered to be in team possession?

A live ball is defined as one that is in play and can be legally possessed or played by the team with eligibility to gain possession. When considering team possession, it's important to recognize that the ball is considered to be in the possession of a team whenever it is live, meaning it is not dead or out of play.

This concept is crucial for understanding various game situations. For instance, a team may have possession of the ball during different phases of play, such as after a snap, during a kick-off, or following a turnover, as long as the ball is live. Knowing that a live ball is automatically in team possession allows players and officials to make informed decisions during gameplay regarding rules related to possession, such as those governing fumbles, interceptions, and other scenarios.

The incorrect options relate to specific situations that do not encompass the broader rules regarding possession. The notion that a live ball is only considered in team possession during certain events, such as kick-offs or only when held by a player, restricts the understanding of how football possession operates in the broader context of the game. Therefore, it is essential to recognize that a live ball equates to team possession at all times while the ball remains in play.