T1B

Guys, I have a question for you.

On a kickoff, if the team fielding the kick calls for a fair catch, does the kicking team have an opportunity to "intercept" the ball? After all, the ball is still live. If they don't, what is the reasoning?

BtH got it as usual.

You are correct in that the ball is live, but don't forget that it is still a kick play and as such certain things apply. The receiving team is entitled to all opportunities to make the catch, including unimpeded path to the ball, an opportunity to possess the ball after the catch, etc.

Now if the kicking team can somehow jump high enough in the air to catch the kick without touching, impedeing, etc the receiver then great. But since that is damn near impossible that is why you see kickers kick the ball onto the ground when attempting an on-sides kick so that the fair catch is no longer an option.