I am in favor of the 5/15 facemask rule. As an umpire I've seen many quick dive plays where, as the defense is gang tackling the runner, someone inadvertently has his hand on the facemask but does not twist,pull or use the facemask to make the tackle. I virtually always call this when I see it but have always felt that this situation was better suited for a 5 yard penalty instead of 15. The kids know that the facemask is off limits so they shouldn't be anywhere near it, but if no advantage is gained by the defense and it was purely accidental then I've always felt that 15 yards was to severe.
Hopefully this won't be a major change for the players or coaches but I think it will more accurately administer what actually happens in game situations. I agree there should be some guidelines as to a "when in doubt" situation if for no other reason than to keep the burden on the players to STAY AWAY FROM THE FACEMASK.
|