Man in Motion on the Line

[Mike Simonds]

This discussion reminds me of some questions I had last year regarding shifts, motion, and blocking below the waist.

Now, I know the tight end can go into a 3 point stance, rise up, and shift to another position along the line. He must reset for 1 second prior to the snap. If he does not, would this be a shift or a motion violation?

Also, when you read the updated rules regarding blocking below the waist, you will note that they took out the language requiring offensive linemen to be stationary at the snap.

Using our example above, lets say the tight end is within the free blocking zone at all times prior to and during the down. If he is guilty of a shift or a motion violation at the snap, is he still entitled to block below the waist if he meets all the requirements? The rule seems to allow the BBW.

Seems to me if the NF was concerned about safety they would rewrite the rule to make this into a multiple foul by A and B would have the choice of selecting the 15 yard penalty for BBW versus the 5 yard penalty for illegal shift/motion.