When is F7 considered to have made a legal catch near the dead-ball area?

F7 is considered to have made a legal catch near the dead-ball area when both feet are on the line that separates the playing area from the dead-ball area. This scenario is crucial because the line itself is regarded as part of the playing area. Therefore, if both feet are on or over that line while making the catch, it signifies that the player is still in bounds and the catch is deemed valid.

In contrast, if one foot is in the playing area and the other is in the dead-ball area, the player would not be considered to have completed a legal catch because the requirement is to have both feet either in bounds or on the line. Additionally, if both feet are completely in the dead-ball area, the player is out of bounds, making the catch illegal. Finally, catching the ball and then stepping into the dead-ball area is also not a legal catch since the player must establish possession while still being in bounds. Thus, the correct situation is when both feet are on the line, maintaining the legality of the catch.