A-11 hits on rivals.com

[Ed Hickland]

Originally Posted by BktBallRef

The NCHSAA and GHSA are two entities that have decided the formation provides an advantage to the offense. For those us in those two states, that's all that matters.



Think about this...what if it was down 1, 2, 3, and 4? Doesn't that make it an offense when you're consistenetly using it the majority of the time you lineup over the ball. Isn't an exception, by definition, something that isn't done a majority of the time?

Think about this...the team uses the numbering exeption with no intent to punt the ball or run a fake punt play.

Think about this...what if the team is putting 11 eligibly numbered players on the field and using a series of shifts in an effort to confuse the offense.

It's simply not as simple as you're trying to make it sound.

Wording of the rule? That's easy...Sonofaump has already addressed that.

"The numbering exception is legal only in obvious kicking situations."

You missed my point, it is not simple.

Unfortunately, I cannot locate any background on the exception and the logic behind it, therefore, can only speculate it was created to give the offense some leeway on punting situations. By giving the exception teams don't have to change jerseys when a member of the punting team who is an interior linesman but maybe a tight end otherwise. The rules restrict using anything but a legal jersey.

NFHS could remove the exception and solve the A-11 problem but that would hurt a number of teams and players disproportionate to those who benefit from the A-11.

Then think technically any team that uses the shotgun has the potential to utilize the numbering exception but most do not.

Therefore, for NFHS or some interpretation to simply say it is illegal ignores the fact the numbering exception is a vital part of the game that officials can easily administer. But the A-11 uses that exception to make a travesty of the game in my opinion and was never intended by the rulesmakers to be so subjected. Plus, it places a great burden on officials to track players and their positions.

Personally, I think the A-11 is a bit of deception that should not be a part of the game. Leaving my personal opinion where it belongs I will abide by the rules as written or modified by NFHS.

[Bad Mood Risin]

Originally Posted by Ed Hickland

Unfortunately, I cannot locate any background on the exception and the logic behind it, therefore, can only speculate it was created to give the offense some leeway on punting situations.

Ed, I don't have a historian's viewpoint, but I do remember in the early-to-mid-80s a rule was changed that affected my high school team, as well as most teams. The old rule had no numbering exception, but allowed teams to put smaller, quicker guys who were typically backs play speacial teams with a special slip-over vest that had an ineligible number on it.

THat was changed with the numbering exception that allowed the same players to play the same positions on special teams without those slip-over vests.

Another interesting item came up about 10 years ago when a coach around here had someone sew a flap onto a jersey made out of the jersey's material -- same color. (I hope I can describe this right) The flap was in the upper square of the block 8 of jersey number 81. The flap had velcro to hold it in place in one of two positions. Either it was in the middle of the 8, or you moved it and it covered one side, making it a 6. So 81 becomes a 61. The purpose of that shirt was to use a kid who they wanted to be a tight end, but might need as a tackle.

From what I remember, it was determined to be illegal and I don't think it was ever used in a game. That could be the answer to the A-11 -- nine guys are wearing 80-89, and five interior linemen pull the flap to be nmbered in the 60s on any particular play.