Game timer

The game timer is what determines how much time is remaining for the offense until they have to throw the ball. The game timer resets to 24 seconds once the offense first gets possession from the punt.

When the game timer expires, the ball is called dead and the defense gets possession.

The purpose of the game timer is to prevent the offense from running down the clock dramatically.

Once the shot clock expires, the ball must have left the passer's hands for the ball to not be considered dead. Once the ball is caught and shows clear possession by a player or makes contact with the floor, the ball is considered dead, allowing there to be an interception or touchdown.