chop block

[Mike Simonds]

A few meetings ago we were discussing the chop block rules. One of our referees said that if the A1 blocks B1 high and A2 blocks B1 low and both blocks are simultaneous, don't call a foul. If A2 delays his low block then you have a chop block foul.

I agree that a delayed block at the knees or below is definitely more likely to result in serious injury. B1 has probably locked his knees and his cleats are digging into the turf when he is engaged with A1. If A2 blocks B1 at knee level from the side there is a greater risk of knee injury.

I can see in certain situations a simultaneous block can also result in injury but in most of these cases B1 is probably still driving his legs and moving his feet immediately after the snap so there is less chance of A2 getting a shot at his locked knees.

Gosh, this is a tough call but like all penalties the obvious ones will come screaming at you.