SportsRulesDeskfdaytalk.com
Rules, not rumors

Every sports rule explained in plain English.

SportsRulesDesk breaks down how NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, NCAA and Fantasy rules actually work, straight from the rulebook, with no jargon and no live-score noise.

NFLNBAMLBNHLNCAAFantasy
NFL

What Counts as Roughing the Passer in the NFL

Roughing the passer is one of the NFL's most debated penalties. Here's what officials are actually watching for, and what's still a legal hit on the quarterback.

Hitting the quarterback with full body weight, or forcibly at or below the knee, after the ball is thrown, is roughing the passer.
Fantasy

PPR vs. Standard Scoring in Fantasy Football, Explained

PPR scoring awards a point for every catch, while standard scoring doesn't. Here's how that one rule changes player values across a fantasy football draft.

PPR awards 1 point per reception in addition to yardage and touchdown points; standard scoring does not.
NFL

How NFL Overtime Rules Work in the Regular Season and Playoffs

NFL overtime rules differ between the regular season and playoffs. Here's exactly how the extra period works, including the modified rule for both teams to possess the ball.

Both teams get a possession in overtime unless the first team scores a touchdown.
NFL

What Is a Two-Point Conversion, and When Should Teams Go For It

The two-point conversion rule lets teams choose two points over the extra kick. Here's how it works, the odds involved, and when coaches actually go for it.

A successful two-point conversion is worth 2 points; the offense snaps from the 2-yard line instead of kicking.
NBA

What Counts as Goaltending in the NBA, and What Doesn't

The NBA goaltending rule blocks defenders from interfering with a shot on its way down. Here's exactly what triggers a goaltending call and what's still legal.

Touching the ball during its downward flight toward the basket, or after it touches the backboard on a shot, is goaltending.