Offensive line formations

[BobwGDFFL]

Does anyone know if or what rules apply to the spacing allowed between the center and guards on the offensive line, as far as distance from each other is concerned?

[foureyedzebra]

Rule 7.5.1

Section 5 Position of Players at the Snap
Article 1: Offensive Team. The offensive team must be in compliance with the following at the snap:
(a) It must have seven or more players on its line (3-18); and
(b) All players who are not on the line, other than the receiver of the snap under center, must be at least
one yard behind it.
(c) No player may be out of bounds.
Note: Offensive linemen may lock legs.


Why do you ask?

[BobwGDFFL]

There is an issue being brought up in my flag football league concerning where the "guards" are allowed to line-up in relationship to the center. I'm a volunteer referee without any actual training and it seemed that the offensive line formation that one team is trying to implement was questionable. They want to position the guards about 3-5 yards out from the center. Thanks for your feedback...

[Kalle]

You might want to suggest to the league that they start using some flag football rule set instead of (pro) tackle rules. In my opinion tackle rules are not suitable for flag unless heavily modified.

[NTXRef]

To answer your question directly, there are no limitations between the distance between lineman (guard, center, etc) at any level.  Sometimes you will see very wide gaps particularly on punt plays.  So, unless your league specifically has a rule against it, your guards, etc. can split all the way to the sidelines as long as they are still on the line.

[BobwGDFFL]

Yeah, tackle football is a different game, and most of our league members learned what they know through the "typical"  Pop Warner/ High School system. The modification of rules is precisely what we are in the process of trying to accomplish. I personally think that formations should be tighter and more standardized in nature to simplify the officiating at least. Thanks for your suggestions everyone...

[Kalle]

You might want to take a look at the International Federation of American Football flag rules at http://www.ifaf.org/articles/view/646/L2FydGljbGVzL2NhdGVnb3J5Lzk=/category:9 - I think they have evolved from NCAA tackle rules.