The refs must have ruled the play had already started.

 

See page PDF page 75 (page 73 of the document).

Rule 9 - 7, Art. 4, sub-section a.

 

https://www.sdcfoa.org/wp-content/uploads/NFHS_Rules.pdf

It still a 5 yard penalty so should have been 4th and 5

In the Cov Cath Highlands game, Highlands lined up 4th and less than five and punted the ball away. Returner caught the ball clean and was tackled. CCH called for a penalty (not offsides or 12 men on field).

 

Ball was returned to original LOS and advanced 5 yards. Highlands ball 1st and 10. Does anyone know what the call was? I don't recall ever seeing a call like that before.

 

It still a 5 yard penalty so should have been 4th and 5

 

I thought it was 4th and 4

The sticks are visible and show 4h and ten

Illegal Participation is a 15 yd penalty from the end of the kick. Illegal Substitution is a 5 yd penalty from original spot as it is a dead ball foul before the snap.