Just covering the NCAA version of a discussion on another sub-board herein.
The snapper is allowed to adjust the ball in any manner desired EXCEPT by lifting the ball off the ground, and as long as the adjustment action does not simulate the start of the snap. He my rotate it about it's long and short axes, and he may lift one end of the ball. Before he snaps it, the ball must have its long axis parallel to the sidelines.
Until last season, they were not permitted to move the ball forward, at all. But, by INTERPRETATION in 2024, the snapper is allowed to push the ball forward NOT MORE than 1/2 yard, but not beyond the goal line or line-to-gain.
IMHO, that has got to be the dumbest interpretation, ever. Although it ought to be a foul, immediately, if this happens early in the game, I would much rather get the snapper warned not to move the ball forward. We've done this hundreds of times, with virtually no recurrence the rest of the game. OK, if the first time this happens is in a critical situation, give us the ability to stop the action, restore the ball to the correct succeeding spot, and warn the snapper - next time will be a foul. And they could add this to the list of fouls that qualify for a 10-second subtraction after the 2-minute time out. And give Team B the option of "snap" or "ready" (if the game clock has been running).
Allowing them to move the ball forward any amount might give them just the amount of field position they need to get a first down, or even a touchdown. Let's give 'em what they earn, no more, no less, and let 'em keep that. Unfortunately, we have to give 'em as much as 18".
