Explain the fair catch call, please

Darren72 · Nov 8, 2021

Can someone explain the fair catch rule that tripped us up on Saturday? From Michael Fitzpatrick’s write up:

NU had JJ Jefferson and Niro III back to return the kick following an Iowa field goal. Jefferson signaled for fair catch, but the ball was angled towards Niro III, who caught it and attempted to return it. The officials ruled that since Jefferson signaled fair catch, but Niro III was the one to catch ball, NU would not get the ball at the 25-yard line, but rather at the 3, where it was caught.

If it was a fair catch, shouldn't it come out to the 25 yard line?
Or is the rule that you only get the 25 yard line if the person who catches the ball calls the fair catch. Otherwise, the old rule applies and the ball is dead where the receiver caught it?

I was at the game, so didn't have the benefit of any explanation or commentary on radio or tv. No explanation was given in the stadium.

Fitzgerald was livid and this likely led to the unsportsmanlike conduct penalty at the end of the drive.

CatManTrue · Nov 8, 2021