Neutral Zone Infraction

[CoachTater]

We are playing a team that is notorious for doing the following:

The offensive line is in a 2 point stance (standing up).  When they use a hard snap count to draw the defense into the neutral zone, the offensive linemen slap the defensive linemen.  I assume that since they have gotten away with this for many years that it is a form of "self protection" against the oncoming rush.  I get that . . . but HATE it!

Your thoughts please.

[maven]

You obviously think that A is using their shift as a tactic to gain an unfair advantage. In that case, B is not guilty of offside for provoking a response from the A linemen.

You could flag a FS for simulating the snap.

I suppose it's worth noting that the NCAA rule book section on Coaching Ethics specifically prohibits this type of play:

"Shifting in a way that simulates the start of a play or employing any other unfair tactic for the purpose of drawing one’s opponent offside. This can be construed only as a deliberate attempt to gain an unmerited advantage."

[CoachTater]

So, you're telling me that when a team uses the second Hut as their snap count when they normally use the first Hut is illegal and against coaching ethics?

I know better than that.

I know that defensive linemen jump into the neutral zone ALL THE TIME!  At the same time, offensive linemen do not have to sit there an just take a blow . . . they can protect themselves.  But, slapping a defensive linemen when they come across the ball . . . I just want your thoughts.

[James]

I think maven misunderstood your original description.
The A players do nothing to incur a False Start, the action you disapprove of is the slap to the D lineman who jumps across.
If it is a slap to the helmet you can have a foul - but I think I personally would point out to them once before throwing the flag. (As someone who only does NCAA rules -Fed might be different)
If the slap is to the shoulder - no way that you have anything.

[RunRickyRun]

If the slap is to the shoulder - no way that you have anything.

I agree.  If the defender is in the NZ, the 'threatened' offensive player has a right to defend his position.  Would you rather he fire out and plant the guy or simply slap the shoulder to draw the flag?

[CoachTater]

OK, thanks for the replies.