The "Spirit" of the Exception to 9-3-3-c (Use of Hands or Arms by Offense)

[TXMike]

9-3-3-c governs how the offense can legally block, to include extensive discussion of blocks in the back and exceptions applicable to such blocks.  Very interesting new AR that stems from this rule.

AR 9-3-3-IX

A11 takes the snap and retreats to pass. Defensive end B95 gets past tackle A75 and is about to tackle A12, who is still inside the tackle box. A75 pushes B95 in the back at the numbers to prevent him from
making the tackle. A12’s pass is complete for a touchdown.
RULING:  Touchdown counts. No foul by A75. Such actions involving pass protection while the passer remains inside the tackle box are within the spirit of the exception to Rule 9-3-3-c and are thus legal.

[dvasques]

Would that be under exception 1 or 2? Because the whole exception text talks about IBB being legal in the blocking zone but the AR talks about the tackle box. That's is a great way to keep confusing the blocking zone with the tackle box for guys around here

[TXMike]

Seems it would be the spirit of exception #1