The refs did not cause WGHS to fumble the kickoff on the 20yd line, nor did they cause the other 3 fumbles.
Free blocking zone or not you can NOT chop block, yes I know the rules too.
A Chop Block is a completely different situation.
Penalty for a chop block is 15 yards.
Here is a write up on the rule: http://www.nfhs.org/content.aspx?id=4648
"Chop Block Rule Redefined in High School Football
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEContact: Bob Colgate
INDIANAPOLIS, IN (February 14, 2011) — A change in the definition of a chop block in high school football, along with a strong emphasis on proper use of the helmet to minimize risk of injury, highlighted the January 21-23 meeting of the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) Football Rules Committee in Indianapolis.
The modification of the chop block rule was one of 11 rules changes recommended by the Football Rules Committee and approved by the NFHS Board of Directors.
The new language in Rule 2-3-8 defines a chop block as “a combination block by two or more teammates against an opponent other than the runner, with or without delay, where one of the blocks is low (at the knee or below) and one of the blocks is high (above the knee).â€
Previous language defined a chop block as “a delayed block at the knees or below against an opponent who is in contact with a teammate of the blocker in the free-blocking zone.â€
Bob Colgate, NFHS assistant director and liaison to the Football Rules Committee, said that any combination block where one block is high (above the knee) and one block is low (at or below the knee) will constitute a chop block – with or without delay between the blocks.