A false start is a basic rule that has been in the NFL rule books for a long time. It has been implemented to ensure fair play and prevent the offensive team from having an unfair advantage.
While there have been a number of false starts being called in the league recently, here is everything that you need to know about the False Start rule in the NFL.
What Is The False Start Rule?
According to the NFL rule books, a false start occurs when an offensive player rushes out of their designated position before the ball is snapped. A false start can also be called when a lineman moves their hand in an attempt to impact the outcome of the game. Once the foul has been committed, the referee instantly calls a stop to the play, deeming the movement as ‘dead.’
What Happens After A False Start?
Once a referee calls a foul, the team committing the foul is penalized five yards. The referee signals this foul by circling his hands in front of his body once or multiple times. The number of circles indicates the number of players held guilty for committing the offense.
📍Initial Call: False Start/play is dead & it’s STILL RAIDER BALL.
— SniperJones🏴☠️🎙🇨🇴 (@RaiderSniper) November 30, 2024
📍Changed Call: Illegal Shift. Outcome should STILL BE RAIDER BALL.
💥POST & REPOST so those that might think the @raiders fanbase is bias towards the Chiefs about the refs having favoritism. #NFL pic.twitter.com/GpZLroGS8o
Even the most experienced of the athletes can commit this mistake. And the rule remains the same both in the NFL and in the college football league. However, this penalty is not applicable to the athletes who are not a part of the scrimmage line.
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How Does A False Start Affect The Flow Of The Game?
A false start can provide a huge advantage to a team in capitalizing on the game. Disrupting the flow of the game, the foul results in derailing drives and loss of significant yardage. Thus, the rule ensures discipline among the team while promoting better synchronization among the athletes. It is for this rule that the athletes must keep immense focus until the ball is snapped. The rule also forces the teams to strategize accordingly to avoid getting caught in such fouls.
Since When Is The False Start Rule Implemented In The NFL?
The false start rule has been part of the NFL since its early days. However, some significant modifications have been made to curb athletes from escaping through any probable loopholes in the rule. At the moment, this rule is one of the most important ones that affects the overall fairness of the game.
Also Read: What Are The Longest Plays In NFL Super Bowl History?
Another prevalent misapprehension is that play usually continues even after a false start foul has been called. Again, this is not true; the play is immediately stopped as the referee awards the penalty.
What Are Some Common Misconceptions Regarding The False Start Rule?
While the rule is pretty straightforward, there are still some misconceptions associated with the False Start. One common assumption is that when a defensive player’s movement results in an offensive player’s false start, the play will always give way to an offsides penalty on the defense. This is not true, as the defensive player should enter the neutral zone. He must also cause the player on the offense to react immediately for the play to be considered offsides.
Another prevalent misapprehension is that play usually continues even after a false start foul has been called. Again, this is not true; the play is immediately stopped as the referee awards the penalty.
Is The False Start Penalty Valid For A Quarterback?
Well, the most likely to be booked for a false start penalty are the offensive linemen. They are the most likely to jump during the snap. The offensive linemen also have a tendency to move out of their position at the sight of a potential defender rushing at them. However, all the offensive players are included in the penalty rule. Quarterbacks, Running Backs, and Wide Receivers can all be booked if they are found guilty of committing a False Start penalty.
Thus, with the False Start penalty explained, it is surely an important part of the NFL rulebook. More so, as it ensures equal playing ground for every team. It might be necessary to go through further amendments. However, as of now, the False Start rule looks quite solid in itself.
Also Read: What Is A Fair Catch? Everything You Need To Know
