---
slug: offside
title: Offside
depth_tier: entry
side: UNIVERSAL
category: Rules
source_id: "FF-0049"
created: 2026-04-06
updated: 2026-05-17
canonical: https://learningfootball.xyz/terms/offside
aliases:
  - offside penalty
  - jumping offsides
  - neutral zone violation
---
# Offside

## Short Definition

A pre-snap penalty called when any player crosses the line of scrimmage into the neutral zone before the ball is snapped.

## Definition

Offside is one of the most common pre-snap penalties in football. When any player—offense or defense—enters the neutral zone before the snap, the official throws the flag immediately. The neutral zone is the space occupied by the ball at the line of scrimmage; neither team may enter it before the snap.

In flag football the penalty is 5 yards. The offense may additionally be awarded a free play—the right to run the next play without consequence—if the defense commits offside and the offense chooses to accept the result of the play rather than the yardage penalty.

## Example

"The defensive rusher fires off a half-count before the snap—offsides on the defense. Five yards, and the offense can take the free play if the next snap goes better."

## Common Confusion

Offside and encroachment are related but distinct. Offside simply requires a player to enter the neutral zone before the snap—no contact necessary. Encroachment specifically involves a defender making contact with an offensive player in the neutral zone before the snap. Both result in a penalty, but the exact call depends on whether contact occurred.

## Related

- encroachment
- false-start
- neutral-zone
- line-of-scrimmage
- designated-rusher
- rush-line

---
Source: https://learningfootball.xyz/terms/offside