Be the Referee: Football Rules Differences

By Sam Davis
MHSAA Director of Officials

August 23, 2023

Be The Referee is a series of short messages designed to help educate people on the rules of different sports, to help them better understand the art of officiating, and to recruit officials.

Below is this week's segment – Football Rules Differences - Listen

The first week of the high school football season is always exciting … and sometimes confusing. Here are some – not all – differences between the high school game and what you see on Saturdays and Sundays.

In high school, there is no such thing as an uncatchable ball when judging pass interference. It is a penalty if there is illegal contact, whether the ball is catchable or not.

In overtime, high school teams start with the ball at the 10-year line – not the 25 like in college. And in high school overtime, you are only able to get a first down via penalty. And, at no time is a high school team required to go for two points.

And on extra point plays, if the defense gains possession, the try is over. The defense cannot return the ball for two points.

Unforgettable 5ive: 2022 Football Week 4

By Jon Ross
MHSAA Director of Broadcast Properties

September 20, 2022

Here's a look at our Week 4 "Unforgettable 5ive" from MHSAA.tv and MHSAA media partner broadcasts:

► Ubly's Mark Heilig brings back a 97-yard interception return for a touchdown in a 42-0 win over Harbor Beach. 

► West Bloomfield's Semaj Morgan makes an incredible catch for a 43-yard touchdown in a 35-27 victory over Clarkston. 

► Muskegon Oakridge's Trevor Jones runs for 228 yards and two touchdowns including this 20-yarder in a 30-18 win over Ludington. 

► East Lansing's Jace Clarizio seals a 36-30 win over DeWitt with an interception near the end zone. 

► Edwardsburg edges Vicksburg 10-7 as Carter Houseman hits a game-winning 42-yard field goal as time expires.