What defines a dead ball in football rules?

A dead ball is defined as a ball that is not in play. This means that in various situations, the ball is considered inactive, and no plays can occur while it is in this state. A dead ball can happen for multiple reasons, such as after a whistle has been blown, a score has been made, or a player has been tackled and downed. The game pauses during a dead ball situation, allowing officials to reset the game and prepare for the next play.

While a ball out of bounds, a ball that has been kicked, or a ball thrown out of play may lead to a dead ball situation, these do not encompass all possibilities of a dead ball. For example, a fumble can result in a dead ball, and a ball touching the ground after being tackled also counts as a dead ball but does not specifically fit into the other options provided. Thus, the definition that best covers the broadest range of scenarios is that it is a ball not in play.