Offensive Team Requirements—Prior to the Snap
ARTICLE 3. Each of the following (a-d) is a dead-ball foul. Officials should blow the whistle and not allow the play to continue. After the ball is ready for play and before it is snapped:
a. Snapper. The snapper (Rule 2-27-8):
3. May take their hand(s) off the ball, but only if this does not simulate the start of a play.
PENALTY—[a-d] Dead-ball foul: Five yards from the succeeding spot. [S7 and S19 or S7 and S20].
