Can 2 different players wear the same number as long as they do not play during the same down?

This occured during a Univ. So. FL game (NCAA) last week. #6, is 2 different players, but one played offense, one played defense.

Is this not a rules issue but a coaching issue since the opponient may be confussed as to the correct identity of #6/
Thanks. I am in a discussion about this with another official.

This is legal in NFHS, I know that doesn't help you.

Here's the NCAA rule:

"c. No two players of the same team shall participate in the same down wearing identical numbers (A.R. 1-4-2-II) [S23]."

Looks like it's the same as NFHS. There is one caveat NFHS doesn't have:

"e. Numbers shall not be changed during the game to deceive opponents [S27]."

that is what I thought. Thanks!

NCAA: quite routine to see this. If you ever get to a bowl game, you'll see it if you look at the sidelines carefully or check the program.

I think there is an unwritten understanding that one same numbered player would only participate on offense and the other on defense.

Not only that, people get injured/tired and what not. Coaches would be kickin themselves for not being able to put in a player because of his duplicate number.