There is a clear logic behind the rule...of which everyone else seems to be able to understand except for you and hbk213.

So I assume that you think the NCAA is a joke as well? Because the punter would be afforded the exact same protections on this play as the NFL.

I understand it. What would you think of making the punters or any other player afforded defenseless player protection for the duration of plays wear some kind of identifier, whether a different jersey color or something else?

A unique number seems to be sufficient for the vast majority of plays.

Receivers and punters/kickers/quarterbacks do have some overlap in numbering.

Don't really think it's needed...it's pretty evident to everyone on the field who the kicker/punter or QB is on a play.

Apparently that was an interpretation shared by the field officials on the game.

But not their bosses.

Yes and no. At that level, everyone knows who the punter is, and what his number is. They spent hours watching film all week. There are no secrets.

I think he's just saying if protecting the punter is so important why not make it really clear who he is. I can imagine that a player might block a punter or kicker without happening to glance at his number. If protecting those guys is so important it makes sense to give them a special jersey color.

Maybe. I see your point, but how many other times has this happened? I can't recall any. The rule seems to be working as it is.

I think we got that. In return, it really isn't that hard to figure out who the punter/kicker/QB is/was- low #, smallish looking dude all the way in the backfield.

This isn't soccer.

I could maybe see this point...if there was a rash of these type of plays. Players know who the QB/kicker is. Just watch any type of change of possession during a scrimmage down. You'll see players avoid contacting the QB unless he's trying to make a play.