End of Game Intentional Delay

[Spence]

Originally Posted by Snaqwells

That's not a rule, it's a case play describing how they (NFHS) want this type of play called. The case play clearly says when it's done just to stop the clock in an end-of-game scenario, we're to ignore or T.

"Coach, you're getting your warning also."

If the rule is designed to prevent it "when its done just to stop the clock" why does the rule specify 5 seconds or less?

[Adam]

Originally Posted by Spence

If the rule is designed to prevent it "when its done just to stop the clock" why does the rule specify 5 seconds or less?

I'm telling you how I understand it. If it was meant for only 5 seconds or less, why did they specify "if it's done only to stop the clock."

Look, I see this as a clear application of spirit and intent. The case book makes it clear that the defense is not to gain an advantage by this tactic. Whether they do it at 5, 6, 7, or 8 seconds doesn't matter to me.

[just another ref]

Originally Posted by Snaqwells

I'm telling you how I understand it. If it was meant for only 5 seconds or less, why did they specify "if it's done only to stop the clock."

Look, I see this as a clear application of spirit and intent. The case book makes it clear that the defense is not to gain an advantage by this tactic. Whether they do it at 5, 6, 7, or 8 seconds doesn't matter to me.

To simplify, if this happens with less than 5 seconds, the offense will not have to put the ball in play at all. Therefore, the intentional delay by the defense, who we assume does not have a timeout or they would have called it, is the only way to keep the game alive. I would see if the situation resolves itself in a second or two, (B quickly recovers the batted ball, or takes it out of A's hands) and start the count then. If not, I see no choice but the delay warning.

Five seconds is the obvious breaking point on this call. If it happens with 8, or 12, or 6, it's a delay warning.

[Adam]

I disagree due to the stated intent of the rules, but I'm sure it doesn't make me a coward.