Punt block vs deflection

[citikid 0]

Can someone explain to me how the NFL determines a punt block vs a punt deflection?

 

I assume it depends on whether the ball crosses the line of scrimmage or not but I was looking for an official definition somewhere. A link would be great

 

Thanks

[Tusekan Raiders 0]

I tried googling around and didn't find anything. I doubt it is defined in the NFL rules, but more of a game scorer type of definition/explanation. I think you're probably right that has to do with crossing the line of scrimmage. Getting a hand on any punt that nets positive yardage is likely still considered a successful "punt" (deflection likely isn't even an official stat/classification), whereas a punt that the other team impedes and doesn't cross the line of scrimmage would be considered blocked.

 

If you know what game it is from, you can pull the Gamebook on NFL.com and see if anything is notated. You can also email your website for a definition, as I assume you're talking about a category that you did/didn't think should have been pointed.