To be considered a forward pass, what must be the initial direction of the ball?

To be classified as a forward pass, the initial direction of the ball must be toward the opponent's goal line. This is fundamental to the definition of a forward pass in football rules, as it distinguishes it from other types of passes, such as lateral passes or backward passes. In a forward pass, the ball travels in a direction that advances the offensive team toward the opposing team's end zone, which is essential for gaining yards and scoring opportunities.

While other options mention directions that could involve forward momentum, only traveling toward the opponent's goal line aligns with the rules governing what constitutes a forward pass. The other options—such as being parallel to the line of scrimmage or moving away from the end zone—do not meet the criteria for a forward pass and can lead to either a lateral (sideways) play or an illegal play, thus clarifying why the correct answer specifies that the ball must be directed toward the opponent's goal line.