A “Roughing the Kicker in Football” penalty is an infraction in American football where the defensive player makes contact with the kicking leg of a punter or placekicker. This penalty results in 15 yards awarded to the offensive team, allowing them to maintain possession of the ball and move it downfield.
This rule intends to protect the players involved in kicking plays from suffering injuries due to being contacted by a defender. It is important to note that even if contact between a defensive player and the kicker’s leg is accidental, it still counts as a foul.
The referee will also call this penalty if the defensive player makes contact with the punter’s or placekicker’s plant foot, even if the connection is not strong enough to cause injury.
Additionally, this rule applies even when the kicker’s leg does not make contact with the ball. If a defender makes contact with a punter or placekicker while they are in mid-kick, it will still count as a “roughing the kicker” penalty.
Different types of penalties
- Unnecessary Roughness
- Block in the Back on a Kicker
- Tripping a Kicking Player
- Running into the Kicker
- Contact with the Plant Foot of a Kicking Player
When any of these penalties occur, officials will call “Roughing the kicker” and award 15 yards to the offensive team. This penalty can be a deciding factor in the outcome of a game, so it is essential to know the rules and disadvantages associated with it.
Roughing the kicker in football penalty occurs when the defender makes illegal contact with the kicker after he kicks the ball. This can include hitting him with their hands or body, or attempting to tackle him as he is attempting to make his kick
Finally, coaches should work with their players to ensure they understand the rules and implications of this penalty to avoid unnecessary fouls during a game. Understanding the laws surrounding “Roughing the kicker” can help players make more informed decisions on the field and prevent them from giving up unnecessary yards to the opposing team.
Strategies for avoiding Roughing
- Making sure the team is aware of the rules and what constitutes a violation
- Keeping a close eye on the defensive players to make sure they do not make contact with the punter or placekicker
- Teaching defensive players proper tackling techniques that will help avoid any unnecessary contact with the kicking player
- Reminding players that even accidental contact can still be penalized
By implementing these strategies, coaches, and teams can avoid costly “Roughing the kicker” penalties that could otherwise result in a loss of yards or possession. By knowing and following the rules associated with this penalty, teams will be able to remain competitive in their games while also avoiding any unnecessary infractions.
It is important to note that the rules surrounding this penalty are strict and should be followed closely. Even if contact between a defensive player and the kicker’s leg is accidental, it still counts as a foul, resulting in 15 yards awarded to the offensive team. Coaches and players alike should take the time to familiarize themselves with these rules to avoid any unnecessary penalties during a game.
Tips
Tips to remember when playing against a disciplined kicker include:
- Respect the kicker’s space and avoid any contact with their body or equipment
- Try to anticipate the kick to stay as far away from the kicker as possible.
- Keep an eye on the defensive players at all times to ensure they are not making contact with the kicking leg of a punter or placekicker.
- Make sure to follow proper tackling techniques when attempting to block a kick.
Ultimately, knowing the rules associated with “Roughing the kicker” is essential for any team looking to remain competitive during a game.
It is important to understand the various types of fouls that can result in this penalty, and coaches and players alike should take the time to familiarize themselves with these rules to avoid costly infractions on the field. By following these tips and strategies, teams can ensure
Common mistakes players include:
- Not knowing the rules associated with this penalty.
- Making contact with the punter for placekicker’s plant foot, even if it is not strong enough to cause injury
- Trying to block a kick without following proper tackling techniques
- Running into the kicker instead of avoiding them
- Failing to keep an eye on the defensive players to make sure they do not make contact with the kicking leg of a punter or placekicker
By avoiding these common mistakes, teams can ensure that they adhere to the rules associated with this penalty and prevent any unnecessary infractions. Knowing and following these rules is essential for any couple looking to remain competitive.
FAQs
What is considered a “Roughing the kicker” penalty?
A “Roughing the kicker” penalty occurs when a defensive player makes contact with the punter or placekicker while in mid-kick, even if they do not contact the ball. This includes making contact with the plant foot of a kicking player, tripping a kicking player, or running into the kicker.
What happens when an official calls “Roughing the kicker”?
When an official calls “Roughing the kicker,” they will award 15 yards to the offensive team and give them a first down if applicable.
What should coaches and players do to avoid “Roughing the kicker” penalties?
To avoid “Roughing the kicker” penalties, coaches and players should familiarize themselves with the rules associated with this penalty, keep a close eye on defensive players to make sure they do not make contact with the kicking leg of a punter or placekicker, and teach proper tackling techniques that will help avoid any unnecessary contact with the kicking player.
Final Thought
Roughing the kicker is a penalty that can have severe implications for the outcome of a game if it is not avoided. By understanding the rules associated with this penalty and following strategies to prevent it, teams can remain competitive while avoiding costly infractions. Coaches and players alike should take the time to familiarize themselves with these rules to ensure their team stays ahead of the competition.
