From James Alder,
Your Guide to Football.
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Definition: Use of the hands to hold or push an offensive receiver or back on a passing play beyond the first five yards past the line of scrimmage.

Also Known As: Illegal Use of Hands

Examples: Inside the five yard chuck zone, the defense may jam the receiver, but after that a penalty is called. Defensive holding results in a five-yard penalty on the offending team and an automatic first down.