Low-Blocking Rules

[will27]

As a fan, I know there have been recent changes to low-blocking rules, that ban virtually any below-the-waist block (outside the tackle box) that's not made from the front.

Am I right in saying that you currently cannot block a player by contacting say, the side of his thigh
(in the open field or on kick/punt returns)? 

Was this type of low "side block" ever considered clipping?
 

[fencewire]

On kicks or changes of possession, all blocking below the waist is prohibited.

Clipping has always been, afaik, below the knees from behind.  In the open field, on a normal run, think of the face of a clock, the blocker needs to block the defender between 10-2 on the clock face, with 12 being dead center on his body.

There are provisions for times when the defender turns himself from the blocker after he has committed to the block that causes contact outside this area so that the blocker isn't penalized for what would have been a legal block.

[bossman72]

The easiest way to remember this rule is that the low blocks from the side must be "IN-IN" to be legal.  The block has to be IN the LBZ and the ball has to be IN the LBZ.  If either are outside the LBZ when the block happens, or if it is a restricted player at any time, then the block must be 10-2. 

2 exceptions:  Crack backs and peel backs.