Helmet To Helmet NFL Question
 

http://www.nfl.com/m/share?p=%2Fvide...y-for-key-sack

Should this have been penalized? The typically fan reaction is yes, but that doesn't necessarily mean anything.

The quarterback wasn't defenseless in the typical sense, unless he's considered defenseless by rule in this situation.

Seeking some clarification.

If you want to debate the definition (much less the understanding) of the word defenseless KNOCK YOURSELF OUT (but you might find a willing tree stump first). The NFL, as well as other levels of football recognize and accept all "helmet contact" as both inevitable and problematic and want to minimize it as much as possible.

When Illegal Helmet Contact fouls (Spearing, Butt-Block, Face Tackle) were initiated, a seriously considered alternative of "removing facemasks" was a possibility if the Contact Fouls proved ineffective.

Up to that point, dangerous techniques were acceptable AND BEING TAUGHT AND ENCOURAGED and it was decided needed to be STOPPED.

At the interscholastic level, for the express purpose "to minimize risk" the "pop-up" free kick was deemed illegal (in the hope it will cease being taught).

Creating and subsequently expanding the definition of "Defenseless Player" is simply the latest step in minimizing helmet contacts, it may not be the last.

The above is a Football Zebras tweet.

Actually, "FormerUmp" it depends on which rules code the game is being played under. NFHS 2-23-16 defines "a defenseless player is a player who, because of his physical position and focus of concentration, is especially vulnerable to injury. A player who initiates contact with a defenseless player IS RESPONSIBLE FOR MAKING LEGAL CONTACT. When in question, a player is defenseless."

(examples of defenseless players include...

a. A player in the act of or just after throwing a pass;"

As with so many aspects of what officials do, informed judgment of what they are specifically observing is a major component of any judgment rendered. Other rule codes may likely impact those decisions.

He is not a passer in NF Rules or NCAA Rules for that matter. A runner is not considered by rule a defenseless player in either code unless they are being held up or under control by a defender. This was not the case.

Peace

Don't know about NCAA, but under NFHS 2-23-16; defines "a defenseless player is a player who, because of his physical position and focus of concentration, is especially vulnerable to injury. A player who initiates contact with a defenseless player IS RESPONSIBLE FOR MAKING LEGAL CONTACT. When in question, a player is defenseless."

Either being, "held up or under control by a defender" may factor in, or contribute to the decision, but neither is REQUIRED.