What event turns a dead ball into a live ball?

A legal snap or free kick is the event that transforms a dead ball into a live ball in football. This rule is fundamental as it indicates the moment when play officially resumes. When the ball is snapped, it allows for offensive and defensive plays to occur, thereby re-engaging all players in the action of the game. Similarly, a free kick signifies an opportunity for the kicking team to advance the ball and for the receiving team to defend against it.

The other options do not result in the ball becoming live. A timeout signal from the referee stops play and maintains the dead ball status until the next legal snap or kick takes place. If any player touches the ball while it is dead, it does not change the ball's status; play remains stopped until the specified criteria to make it live are met. A whistle from the coach, as well, has no effect on the status of the ball; only officiating signals dictate changes in play.