What is required for a forward pass to be considered legal?

A forward pass is considered legal when it is thrown from behind the line of scrimmage. This rule is fundamental to the game's structure, as it ensures that offensive plays are initiated from the designated space on the field. Throwing from behind the line of scrimmage allows the quarterback or passer enough time and space to gauge the situation and choose a suitable receiver, adhering to the standard play dynamics of offensive football.

The other options do not accurately represent the requirements for a legal forward pass. For instance, while it is beneficial for the pass not to touch an opposing player to ensure a clean catch, it is not a requirement for legality as the ball could still be considered a pass if it deflects off an interceptor or is caught in traffic. Similarly, it is not necessary for the receiver to be in the end zone when a forward pass is made; instead, the receiver can catch the ball anywhere on the field, provided the pass meets other legal criteria. Lastly, while a pass can be thrown with one or both hands, it is not mandated that the pass must be thrown with both hands, as single-handed throws can also be legal.