What is illegal helmet contact?

Illegal helmet contact refers specifically to the act of initiating contact with the helmet against an opponent. This is a critical rule in football to ensure player safety, as such actions can lead to serious injuries, including concussions. The rules are designed to minimize situations where players use their helmets as weapons, which can occur during tackles or blocks.

In contrast, the other options describe situations that do not involve helmet contact in a manner deemed illegal under the rules. Contact below the waist is allowed under certain circumstances, as is contact made with the shoulder. Additionally, while using the helmet for protection is acceptable in many respects, it does not justify initiating contact in a way that compromises player safety. The focus of this rule is on preventing dangerous plays and promoting a safer game environment.