Illegal Shift Question

[HLin NC]

2-32 Player Designations defines a lineman and a snapper. You will note Rule 2 doesn't define an end. An end is still a lineman but on the end of his line.

2-39 defines a shift.

7-1-7c tells us what "a player on his line between the snapper an a player on the end of his line" may do. After that particular player has placed his hand(s) on or near the ground, he can not move it and thus can not shift.


In your scenario of : C G T WR G & T may not shift once they've placed their hand on or near the ground. It would be a false start. The snapper (C), can't shift because he's locked in once he places a hand on the ball.

A G &/or T shift would have to be made in such a way that they do not simulate action at the snap.

[CT1]

To make it simple:

Any player may shift unless he is an interior lineman who has put one or both hands on or near the ground.

Any shift must be done in a manner that does not simulate the start of a play.