You've actually just explained why the rule is the way it is. How do you distinguish a fake punt, a blocked punt, from a punt? In the first two scenarios, the offense would need to advance the ball past the first down marker just as you explained. It's only when the ball is punted -- defined by kicking the ball past the LOS -- that it is considered a change of possession and all punting rules applied.
You're right, whatever the rule the team needs to know it and put it in practice, so the Cowboys did make a mistake. I just think the rule doesn't make sense. The offense should still have to get the ball across the 1st down mark.
I understand the rule, but I still think it's ridiculous. In my mind since possession never shifted to the Cowboys it should still be incumbent on the offense to get the ball across the point needed for a first down.
I don't have a problem with the fact that the ball was recoverable by the punting team after the Cowboys touched it, I just don't like that it negated the need to get a first down. To me it should be treated as if the punting team had fumbled the ball and everyone was scrambling for it. In that case the punting team would still need to get the first down yardage to keep the ball. Instead it's treated as if the Cowboys had gained possession and then fumbled, and to me that doesn't make sense.
I am not failing to understand that the ball is considered to have changed possession when the ball is punted past the line of scrimmage - I get how the rule works - I just don't think it makes sense. I think this situation should be treated as a loose ball, same as if the defense had forced a fumble.
This right here. A blocked punt should be seen as a fumble on 4th down. Unless the recieving team advances it past the 1st down marker, it's should be turnover on downs with one exception:
