Play after play after play, at the line of scrimmage and in the open field I saw GT offensive players diving into the legs of Vol defenders at or below the knees. Frequently, the offensive players were outside of the "10-to-2" region of the defender. I considered these illegal blocks and dangerous to the well-being of the defenders. In light of the following NCAA rules clarification, what say you? Did GT commit numerous uncalled illegal blocks?
9. Blocking Below the Waist (Rule 9-1-6) FR-89
Changes to paragraph a: (New language is in bold italics)
a. Team A prior to a change of team possession:
1. The following Team A players may legally block below the waist inside the tackle box until they leave the tackle box or until the ball has left the tackle box: (a) players on the line of scrimmage completely inside the tackle box and (b) stationary backs who are at least partially inside the tackle box and at least partially inside the frame of the body of the second lineman from the snapper.
2. Except as in paragraph 3 (below), players not covered in paragraph 1 (above) while the ball is still in the tackle box, and all players after the ball has left the tackle box, are allowed to block below the waist only if the force of the initial contact is directed from the front. From the front is understood to mean within the clock-face region between 10 oclock and 2 oclock forward of the player being blocked.
3. Players not covered in paragraph 1 (above) may not block below the waist toward the line through the original position of the ball at the snap until the ball carrier is clearly beyond the neutral zone.
4. Once the ball has left the tackle box a player may not block below the waist toward his own end line.
