The Time Has Come to Reassess the Targeting Rule in College Football
It’s high time to reevaluate the targeting rule in college football. While having a personal foul for intentional hits to the head is understandable, the current implementation of the rule is too vague and encompasses a wide range of tackles that result in players being ejected from games.
A recent incident highlighted the absurdity of the rule, where a defender was attempting to wrap up the ball carrier’s legs and accidentally made contact with the receiver’s lower back. Despite the defender’s intentions, they were ejected from the game due to the angle of their helmet. This is unacceptable and highlights the need for change.
What’s most frustrating is the ejection of players based on these calls. These athletes dedicate themselves to their craft 365 days a year, only to have their opportunities limited by an overly restrictive rule. The majority of targeting calls are debatable, and even when correctly applied, they often result in harsh penalties.
Football is a physically demanding sport played by athletes who understand the risks involved. While protecting players from unnecessary harm is crucial, we must strike a balance between safety and fairness. If we continue to uphold questionable targeting penalties, it’s time to reassess the rule and find a more effective solution.
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