QUARTERBACK IN MOTION

[BktBallRef]

Originally posted by zebraman55

Rule 9, Section 5, Artilce 1, D - using disconcerting acts or words prior to the snap in an attempt to interfere with A's signals or movements. Possibly an incorrect reference Bktballref?

Okay zeb, if you're going to post on these forums, you need to understand the difference in 9-5-1d and 9.5.1d.

9-5-1d is a rule reference. 9.5.1D is a case book reference.

In the play above, there is no way I will be able to enforce this rule.

I still do not see the unsportsmanlike conduct on this one......there is absolutely no way for me to know that the QB vocal signals is intended to be......

Then let's look at 9.5.1d.

9.5.1 SITUATION D: From a field goal formation, potential kicker A1 yells, "Where's the tee?", A2 replies, "I'll go get it" and goes legally in motion toward his team's side-line. Ball is snapped to A1 who throws a touchdown pass to A2. Ruling: Unsportsmanlike conduct prior to snap.

Comment: Football has been and always will be a game of deception and trickery involving multiple shifts, unusual formations and creative plays. However, actions or verbiage designed to confuse the defense into believing there is problem and a snap isn't imminent is beyond the scope of sportsmanship and is illegal.

This play is directly on point with the original post. It's USC and that's the way the NF expects it to be called. If the QB does that, talks to his SE and then goes back to the huddle, then we have nothing. However, when the ball is snapped, it's obvious that the verbage is intended to deceive.

[Edited by BktBallRef on Sep 11th, 2001 at 09:41 AM]