Quote:
Originally posted by KWH
...actions or verbiage designed to confuse the defense into believing there is a problem and a snap isn't imminent is beyond the scope of sportsmanship and is illegal."
In the sample play, The QB beckons 3 other players to his postion, has them circle around him (forming a mini-huddle), pretending to be changing the play, with the sole intent of luring the defense into think the play is not imminent, catching the defense sleeping, and snapping the ball.
Gentlemen, this play is no different (in intent) than the "Where's the Tee" play described in CASE BOOK 9.9.3 SIUATION B:
RULING:
1) If the head coach reviewed this "trick or unusual play" in or pre-game meeting I would have told him it is an illegal action and not to run it. Hopefully, that should be the end of this issue.
2) If the play is run, the ruling is simple. Shut the play down prior to (if possible) however more likely immediatly after the snap.
The head coach is charge with an unsporstmanlike conduct foul. This then, would be the end of the issue.
The NFHS does not condone these types of plays!
The NFHS can not present any clearer message on this type of crap football than the COMMENT at the end of 2004 CASE BOOK 9.9.3 SITUATION B
Shut all types of this crap football down! It is not a part of the NFHS game!
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If there are players standing directly behind the center I would not assume a snap is not imminent. If, like the case book says, a player leads someone to believe he has to go the sideline to get a tee and return to the field before they can snap the ball then the defense can reasonably assume a snap is not imminent. Let your state athletic assoc. review this one.