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Originally Posted by ajmc
Something worth remembering, as we continue to hash out this problem, is that there are really big differences between those who play HS football, those who go on to play college football and those few, who make it on into the NFL.
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First, the A-11 is not a problem for the rules, simply removing the numbeing exception removes the "problem." Consider, not the rules makers consider not only the players but if the officials can officiate the rule. While the NFL and NCAA have seven officials, there are a few NFHS varsity games with four officials. They have a difficult workload without the A-11.
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Trying to tailor the wording of any rule, so it fits all 3 categories is a difficult, if not impossible, challenge. We currently have separate rules codes, that are basically similar, but contain a lot of specific differences that take into consideration the differences in physical attributes, maturity and the experience factors of each level regarding both players and coaches.
One size rarely, if ever, fits all, and what might work fine for a goose just doesn't cut it with ganders. It's not just a question of which phrasing works better, because each phrasing is (or at least is intended to be) related to it's specific audience.
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Again, the NFHS code places a premium on safety especially considering the participants are younger than the average NCAA player. Also, the code considers many high school officials are not equipped as NCAA officials. For years the NFHS has tried to stay away from exceptions to the rules, in other words, using the basic code which ALL the codes subscribe.
We saw NFHS implement the post scrimmage kick enforcement and it took three years to get it right. The numbering exception has been around for decades and sufficed until the intent was circumvented.
Now, the Rules Committee is attempting to tighten the rule to the original intent which would place it in line with the NCAA and NFL codes and not some divergent direction.
From the proposals placed before the Committee the A-11 as advertised will be eliminated. The basic code has linemen numbers (50-79) on the interior O-line and that basic tenet of the game will not be compromised.