How is a facemask penalty enforced?

The enforcement of a facemask penalty is correctly addressed by measuring 15 yards from the end of the run or from the spot of the foul. This rule is in place because a facemask infraction is considered a personal foul, which typically carries a more severe penalty of 15 yards due to the potential danger involved.

When the foul occurs, officials will determine whether the play resulted in a gain and will assess the penalty based on the situation: if the foul occurred during a running play, the enforcement can be from the end of the run if it gains beyond the mark of the foul. Alternatively, if the foul disrupts the fair opportunity for the offensive team and is committed behind the line of scrimmage, the enforcement may take place from the spot of the foul.

This dual enforcement option helps maintain fairness in gameplay, ensuring that teams do not gain an unfair advantage from a penalty that could have occurred away from the ball's advance.