What happens if a forward pass is incomplete?

When a forward pass is incomplete, the play is considered a dead ball. This means that the play is effectively over at that point, and the ball cannot be advanced by either team. The offense will lose down for the play, which leads to a change in the status of the ball. Following an incomplete forward pass, the ball is returned to the previous line of scrimmage for the next down, and play is reset for the offense to attempt their next play.

Situationally, the other options do not accurately reflect what happens after an incomplete pass. The ball is indeed not in play following the incompletion, ensuring that there is a clear stopping point before the next down begins. Additionally, an incomplete pass is not classified as a foul, nor is the ball awarded to the opposing team; it remains with the offense for the continuation of the series unless the number of downs expires. This rule is important for maintaining the flow of the game and preventing confusion on the field.