Stiff Arm or Illegal Blow to the Head

[NVFOA_Ump]

Had a play Friday evening where a ball carrier (a big fullback) came up to an approaching D-back (half his size) and delivered a scary "stiff arm" by reaching back near his chest and firing out with an open palm to the D-backs facemask.  D-back went down like he was shot and the ball carrier scored a TD.  Had a short delay for an injured player (the D-back) but had the try after he wobbled of the field with the assistance of the trainer.  What level of force is excessive (reaches PF status) for this type of play?

[HLinNC]

If he drew his arm back that much, that isn't a stiff-arm, that's striking a blow.

[bama_stripes]

If he drew his arm back that much, that isn't a stiff-arm, that's striking a blow.

Agree.  Although it’s a “had to be there” judgment call, it doesn’t sound like he was merely trying to ward off the DB.

[AlUpstateNY]

Agree.  Although it’s a “had to be there” judgment call, it doesn’t sound like he was merely trying to ward off the DB.

:

Agree it's clearly a judgment call (YOUR judgment).  YOU might seriously consider (NFHS) 2-3-4  (a) " An Offensive player may also use his hands or arms; (a) When he is a runner, to ward off or push any player.

and (NFHS) 9-4-3 ""No player or nonplayer SHALL" (g) "make any other contact with an opponent.....which is deemed unnecessary or excessive and which incites roughness" and/or 9-4-3(j) "Strike an opponent with his fist, locked hands, forearm or elbow....."

Your description suggests either/both rules were violated.