Quote:
Originally posted by coachz_216
If a defender in great position beats an offensive player to the spot and happens to be a few inches onto the line--I would think a good official would just say "I didn't see him on the line...", call the PC foul and head the other way.
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Coach Z,
As it was explained to me, one rational for this rule change is to NOT give the defender special treatment. An offensive player with the ball can not step on the line and be considered in play. Why should a defender be given that right? If the offense is required to stay in bounds, the same should apply to the defense.
I've had the same concerns as your association. I've been worried about the offensive player that takes advantage of this rule and clocks the defender. I believe we have recourse within the rules. I could call a double foul: blocking on the defender and a flagrant foul on the offender if I believe the offender intentional tried to hurt the defender. A flagrant foul by rule can be called for violent contact. However, I had better be able to sell this call as it will mean the offensive player is disqualified.