long snaps

[Texoma_LJ]

JimS.. I tend to disagree with your point that the rule is there to protect the snapper with his head down and once he lifts his head back up the protection is over. I tend to believe that the rule protects the snapper becuase of the unnatural position he is in having to deep snap and that he has no way to protect himself. He should be given protection until he can physically protect himself again. This requires not only lifting the head but also attaining an "athletic" stance over his feet. It is the responsibility of the defense not to charge into the snapper until this time, this is no different than the defense knowing that the ball is dead and to cease play. The nature of the rule implies there is a player that is in an unsafe situation. It is our responsibility to protect him, until he can protect himself.
I do agree that a once a "reasonable" amount of time has passed that he should have returned to an "athletic" position and protection is then discontinued.