What is targeting in football?

Targeting in Football

Targeting is a specific foul in American football, primarily at the collegiate level, aimed at protecting defenseless players from dangerous head-to-head contact. It's considered one of the most serious personal fouls in the game.

Definition: Targeting occurs when a player takes aim at an opponent above the shoulders and initiates contact with the crown of the helmet. This is considered particularly dangerous and is strictly prohibited. Contact can also occur in the head or neck area and still be deemed targeting, even if the crown of the helmet is not used.

Key Elements:

• Taking Aim: The player must clearly target an opponent.
• Initiating Contact: The player must initiate contact.
• Forceful Contact: The contact must be forceful.
• Area of Contact: The contact is made to the head or neck area of a defenseless player.

Defenseless Player: A "defenseless player" is any player who, due to their physical position, is especially vulnerable to injury. Examples include:

• A player in the act of or just after throwing a pass.
• A receiver attempting to catch a pass or who has completed a catch but has not had time to protect himself.
• A player on the ground.
• A kicker or punter during the kick or immediately after.
• A player who is obviously out of the play.

Penalties:

• 15-Yard Penalty: The offending team is penalized 15 yards.
• Automatic Ejection: The player committing the targeting foul is automatically ejected from the game.
• Instant Replay Review: All targeting penalties are reviewed by instant replay officials. The replay official can confirm or overturn the penalty.
• Suspension: A player ejected for targeting may be subject to further suspension, depending on the league's policies.

Purpose:

The primary purpose of the targeting rule is to reduce the risk of head injuries, including concussions and other serious conditions. It aims to change player behavior and promote safer tackling techniques.

Criticisms:

The targeting rule is not without its critics. Some common criticisms include:

• Difficulty in Interpretation: The subjective nature of the rule can lead to inconsistencies in its application.
• Impact on the Game: Automatic ejections can significantly impact a team's performance and the flow of the game.
• Unintended Consequences: Players may alter their tackling techniques in ways that inadvertently increase the risk of other types of injuries.

Here are the terms in the markdown as links:

• Targeting
• Defenseless Player
• Automatic Ejection