What does blocking below the waist entail?

Blocking below the waist involves making initial contact with an opponent below the waist from the front or side when the ball is not in the runner’s possession. This is a specific regulation within football rules that aims to maintain player safety and ensure fair play. The rules are designed to prohibit certain types of tackles that could lead to injuries, particularly those that come from behind or below the waist without proper positioning.

When blocking is done from the front or side, it is deemed legal, as it allows players to engage in blocking while keeping the focus on safety. The rule is clear that the runner must not be the target, reinforcing that this type of blocking should occur during play situations where the ball is not being carried by that player. This distinction is crucial in adhering to the NFHS guidelines.

Other choices describe illegal actions or scenarios that are not recognized under the rules. Making contact from the back or above the waist generally violates safety protocols and is also considered an automatic penalty in many cases. Blocking in a standing position does not accurately capture the nuances of blocking regulations, as players can also block while in different stances depending on the play. These details help illustrate the importance of understanding blocking rules for maintaining safety and fair competition on the field.