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The way this play is described IMO would best be treated as a DB-PF. Since the "block" occurs at about the same time as the tackle, and 20 yards behind the tackle, I would offer that the intent of the rules would be best served by calling it DB in that the block did not result in an "unfair advantage" for the actual ball carrier.
Also, as described (at least under NCAA rules) this is definitely a foul. This type of play has been cited by the NCAA rules committee for the last several years, and is again included as bullet 9 under the Protection of Defenseless Players section within the Point of Emphasis.
When in the judgement of the covering official the player is "out of the play" and therefore has no reasonable expectation of getting hit, we should have a flag when he does get hit. I would also agree with the preventive officiating idea if I was the trailing official and offer the standard "let's not do anything stupid" if we see anything "developing" well behind the play.
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"It's easy to get the players, Getting 'em to play together, that's the hard part." - Casey Stengel
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