re: AMBUSH: One of the best calls made in NFL History

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Wouldn't a tie normally go to the recieving team?

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The rule is called "Simultaneous Possession". It basically says that in the case of possession by both teams at the conclusion of the play, possession will be awarded to the team that is logically expected to have the ball at the end of the play. It's obviously a very murky rule and is wide-open to interpretation.

The rule primarily comes into play on a normal offensive down. For example, on a passing play the WR and DB both come down with the ball equally. The WR is expected to have the ball at the end of the play, so it is awarded to the WR.

Another example would be a fumble. If a RB fumbles the ball and an OL and DL both jump on it at the same time, possession will be granted to the offense.

This rule gets very tough on plays that are expected to lead to a change of possession (punts, kickoffs, etc.).

On a kickoff, if you had truly simultaneous possession, I would give the ball to the receiving team.

ETA: I am a football official, but not in the NFL (although I do officiate certain leagues using the NFL rulebook). So take my opinion with a grain of salt.