Philosophically Speaking

[simpson]

Sure the intent of the rule is to prevent the sleeper play, but can the offense gain an advantage even if the defense covers the player? Of course they can. They can line up illegally and snap right after the ready for play (think hurry-up) and gain the extra width of the field. Is it that big of a deal? Probably not. However, this is a penalty that will be real obvious that it was not called on tape. It is real easy to prevent, just tell the player to wait inside the numbers until the RFP.

Prevent it if possible, flag it if not. Flag it once and that team will never do it again.

This is basic football - learn to line up properly. I tell players who line up in the neutral zone to back up if possible, and flag it if they don't. How is this any different?

BTW - the rule does NOT apply to free kicks. It only applies between the RFP and the SNAP. I don't have my book in front of me, so I can't give an exact rule quote. Trying to enforce this on the kickoff would be a nightmare.