Had this in a JV game last week.

Runner with a clear path for the end zone. Defender unable to catch up to the runner does a soccer style sliding tackle and takes the runner down.

Coach does crazy yelling "you can't trip, that illegal."

Told the coach you can trip the runner.

Another official thought it was dangerous and illegal (kept him away from the coach).

Rule says you can trip the runner but can that trip be a sliding tackle?

I don't see anything wrong with it. I don't see how it's much different than diving at a runner in an attempt to make a tackle.

2-44 says "Tripping is the use of the lower leg or foot to obstuct an opponent, <b> who is not the runner</b> below the knee. Tripping the runner <b> is legal</b>

Geeze, you scared me, thought I was in a soccer forum for a second.


Legal as MJT Cited