Special Teams
What is Fair Catch in college football?
In college football, Fair Catch means: A signal by a returner choosing not to advance a kick in exchange for protection from being tackled. It is used to describe special teams context in college football.
Quick Answer
In college football, Fair Catch means: A signal by a returner choosing not to advance a kick in exchange for protection from being tackled. It is used to describe special teams context in college football.
Definition
A signal by a returner choosing not to advance a kick in exchange for protection from being tackled.
How CFB Track Uses It
CFBTrack uses Fair Catch context to connect glossary definitions with the stats, schedules, teams, players, and rankings that use the term.
Related Glossary Terms
Punt ReturnA return attempt after receiving a punt.Kickoff ReturnA return attempt after receiving a kickoff.Kick-Catch InterferenceA penalty when the kicking team interferes with a returner's protected opportunity to catch a kick.Average Starting Field PositionThe average yard line where a team's drives begin.Blocked KickA field goal, PAT, or kickoff attempt deflected by the defense.Blocked PuntA punt deflected or stopped by the receiving team before it travels normally.
Last reviewed 2026-04-24