sadlerdawg, leads me to wonder about some young players that were being recruited prior to McKenzie, same things were being said. With McKenzie, might be some of that behind closed doors talk. Every player wants to hit the field from freshman status on. Could also be that our newly appointed director of recruiting, McClendon, wiser than those that wear the big hats.
Another article that caught my eye sadlerdawg. Comes from Saturday Down South. What do you think? I am not big on the NCAA, but hope being able to substitute as recommended is a big step forward. Of course, I have let it be know that I like defensive football. Not knowing the play called, having to read formations, tough job. May be that we have a teacher(s) now that can relate.
Defensive Substitutions
The targeting penalty changes will get all the headlines, but the defensive substitution proposal would be a complete game changer.
The rules committee is proposing to let defenses substitute within the first 10 seconds of the 40-second play clock, with the exception of the final two minutes of the half…all in the name of player safety, via NCAA.org.
“This rules change is being made to enhance student-athlete safety by guaranteeing a small window for both teams to substitute,” said Calhoun. “As the average number of plays per game has increased, this issue has been discussed with greater frequency by the committee in recent years and we felt like it was time to act in the interests of protecting our student-athletes.”
The offense wouldn’t be allowed to snap the ball until the play clock reached 29 seconds or less, and if it happens, a 5-yard delay of game penalty will be enforced.
Under the current rules, defenses don’t have the opportunity to substitute players in and out if the offenses don’t. That’s why Auburn and Texas A&M, among others, have created favorable matchups and keep their foot on the gas pedal.
Related: Nick Saban & Bret Bielema lobbying for what would benefit their teams
Let’s call this the Bret Bielema and Nick Saban rule. Both coaches are proponents of defenses substituting, and both have been outspoken against up-tempo offenses. Bielema has been a critic of the style of offense in the name of player safety.
The release said the committee discussed the issue at length before ultimately coming to the conclusion that defensive teams should be allowed some period of time to substitute.
All rules proposals must be approved by the NCAA Playing Rules Oversight Panel held on March 6th.