What do you allow the QB to do with his hands?

If a QB comes up under center with his hands under center do you allow him to shift to the shotgun?

We had a play Friday where QB comes up (4th and 4 situation) under center with his hands under the center for a direct snap. On his first cadence he and the halfback make a sudden shift to a punt formation. Friday I threw a flag for illegal procedure because there intent was to draw the defense offsides.

What is everbody else's opinion on this?

Why is he different than a Running Back?
 

The QB can shift just like anyone else in the backfield. As long as his actions are not simulating the snap (judgment), he can move up behind the center and back up. This is very legal. Unless you give something that suggests otherwise, this is not only legal, but kind of common from time to time.

Peace

If he faked you into thinking he missed the count, etc., then I have no problem with the flag. If he draws the defense, DEFINETLY flag it. If he comes out slow and goes to punt formation, probably won't flag it. Did the coach discuss this play with you before the game? Some times they'll tell you they are going to do things like this. This is a good time, if HE brings it up, to talk to him about it and let him know the issues and pitfalls.

REPLY: If by your use of the word "sudden," you mean an abrupt movement away from the center that simulated action at the snap, you were absolutely correct for flagging it---but it would be a false start, not illegal procedure. However, if he moved slowly and smoothly away from the snapper, this is nothing more than a legal shift.

I assume NFHS? Was everybody set for a second before the snap?

I have never seen a QB come out from under center early and not try to leave his hands there. It's always that "reaching for the ball while backing up" look. It is obvious from WH position what happened but maybe not so much from defensive side. If he stands straight up and then moves away it is definitely a shift and not an false start in my mind.

I agree with what the others said.. I would have to see how he came out to determine if false start or nothing.

false start
 

Your false start call is correct. Check your casebook under rule 7.1.7 situation A. This gives an excellent example of your situation.