Rule Question

[JBS]

why are offensive linemen allowed to block pass rushers in the back? it seems absolutely idiotic to me..

a DE/OLB speed rushes past an OT and the tackle takes 2 hands and pushes the guy to the ground from behind...how is that NOT a penalty?

yes, I am watching this ravens game - it did just happen, but i have wondered this very thing many times before

 

[Reality]

why are offensive linemen allowed to block pass rushers in the back? it seems absolutely idiotic to me..

a DE/OLB speed rushes past an OT and the tackle takes 2 hands and pushes the guy to the ground from behind...how is that NOT a penalty?

yes, I am watching this ravens game - it did just happen, but i have wondered this very thing many times before

I am not completely sure but I believe there is an area of the field where lineman can block in the back without a penalty as long as it is (and I'm going from memory here) around 3 yards from the line of scrimmage and to the side of the tackles. I do not believe there is a block-in-the-back penalty for any offensive play behind the line of scrimmage.

I think this rule exists because defensive lineman use spin moves and because it is real easy to get turned around or sideways on the line.

#reality

 

[JBS]

I am not completely sure but I believe there is an area of the field where lineman can block in the back without a penalty as long as it is (and I'm going from memory here) around 3 yards from the line of scrimmage and to the side of the tackles. I do not believe there is a block-in-the-back penalty for any offensive play behind the line of scrimmage.

I think this rule exists because defensive lineman use spin moves and because it is real easy to get turned around or sideways on the line.

#reality

thanks reality