Sideline Warning/Sideline Interference

[Forksref]

I love the new rule that moves the coaches back 2 yds during a live ball. I had a feeling that could be coming when they moved the chains back a couple years ago. Safety is a larger issue now with lawsuits being filed. A few years ago a chain guy in SD was killed on a sideline play.

Another side effect might be less hassle from coaches because they are farther from the play and can't see it as well. OOPS! Silly ME!

[HLin NC]

Problem forks- define "when the ball is about to become live". That's what I hate- just clearly define the rule like the NCAA and be done with it.

[KWH]

HLin NC- It is not necessary to determine how to define "when the ball is about to become live" as you suggest. Both of the new rules use the phrase "when the ball is live!" And, we have a current definition of a live ball. (2-1-2).

The two new rules are:

1-2-3g...Team boxes shall be marked on each side of the field outside the coaches'area between the 25-yard lines for use by coaches, substitutes, athletic trainers, etc., affiliated with the team. The coaches' area is a minimum of a 2-yard belt between the front of the team box and the sideline, and becomes a restricted area when the ball is live.

9-8-3...A nonplayer shall not be outside his team box unless to become a player or to return as a replaced player. A maximum of three coaches may be in the restricted area. No player, non-player or coach shall be in the restricted area when the ball is live.