Expert: Vic Winnek - 11/5/2007

Question
I don't know if you saw the play but LSU was at 4th and one.  In an attempt to draw the Defense offsides, LSU lined up in a loose two-point stance and the line abruptly shifted tight formation.  This movement drew the defense across the neutral zone where contact was made and a flag was thrown. The ball never moved during the play.

The penalty was against the offense for simulating a snap.  While I realize there was a concerted effort to draw the defense offsides, but simulating a snap in some manner is always the strategy. Sometimes the QB drops back, or a back darts into motion, exagerated cadence, the list goes on. Simply asking the defense if they wouldn't mind jumping offsides would be ineffective.

I have seen other teams do this before, Like Bama Vs Tenn, without penalty.

Thanks for all you guys do and I would appreciate any clarification.

Answer
John
Thanks for the question.  Below I have attached the You tube link for the play you question.

www.http://youtube.com/watch?v=sDdfKvXhjpk

The officials were correct.  This is a Dead Ball Foul against the Offense for a False Start.   NCAA Rule 7-1-4(b) specifically prohibits the offense from making quick, jerky movements prior to the snap.  The rule provides that proper shifts by the offense are to be done in "smooth rhythmical manner".  In several NCAA Football Bulletins over the past 12 years this issue has been addressed as has it in the Approved Ruling under Rule 7 where it states it is a False Start if an offensive player (lineman between the snapper and end) makes a movement that "draws a charge" [or reaction] by the defense.

Rule 7-1-3(4) provides that no offensive player may "feign a charge"; make a shift or movement that simulates the beginning of a play, and linemen may not move after having placed their hand(s)on the ground, near the ground or below their knee".  Here #71 (Right Tackle) had his right hand below his knee then raises it just before they all shift.

The Rules Committee specifically has made this type of shift play illegal as the intent of the play is to "deceive" the defense and draw them off side.  Years ago this was legal but it is now deem illegal by the Rules Committee (which is made up of NCAA coaches).  If the shift was smooth, slow and rhythmical it would have been legal.

There is a general misconception that "simulating a snap in some manner is always the strategy".  When a QB drops back, or a back darts into motion, or there is an exaggerated cadence with the intent to draw the defense off side then this is a foul by the offense - False Start or unfair Act (9-2-3(c)).  Philosophically, the offense has the advantage because they know the snap count and the defense has to read and react to it.  If the offense is permitted to make quick shift like this when they already know the snap count the defense is placed at a great disadvantage because they would have to guess which movement is the actual snap.

What makes this a false start is the quick jerky movement of the offense as they shift and #71 who had his hand below his knee prior to the movement and #71 charge forward instantly after the shift.  I am sure #71's charge forward was in reaction to the defense who moved in reaction to the quick jerky shift by the offense.  This is a text book example as to a False Start.

http://youtube.com/watch?v=sDdfKvXhjpk

I hope this clears up the subject for you.  If you need any further information John, please feel free to ask a follow up question.
Best regards,

Vic Winnek
NCAA Football Official