As a football expert, I can provide a comprehensive answer to your question regarding the rules of hitting a quarterback in American football. The safety of players is paramount in the sport, and the rules are designed to protect players from dangerous and potentially career-ending injuries. The quarterback, being a key player on the field, is given special protection under the rules.

First and foremost, it is important to understand the concept of "defenseless players" in the NFL. A quarterback is considered defenseless when he is in the act of passing the ball. At this point, he is particularly vulnerable to injury, and the rules prohibit defenders from hitting him forcibly at or below the knee. This is to prevent what is known as a "low hit," which can lead to severe leg injuries, including fractures and dislocations.

The rules state that no defensive player rushing unabated can hit the quarterback forcibly at or below the knee. This means that a defender cannot simply run at full speed and tackle the quarterback by targeting his lower legs. Such an action is considered a foul and can result in penalties, including a 15-yard penalty for unnecessary roughness.

Furthermore, the defensive player is also prohibited from initiating a roll or lunge and forcibly hitting the quarterback in the knee area or below. This rule is in place to prevent defenders from using their body weight and momentum to drive into the quarterback's lower body, which can cause devastating injuries.

It is also worth noting that the rules regarding hitting a quarterback below the knees are not absolute. There are certain situations where a hit below the knees may be allowed. For example, if the quarterback has already released the ball and is no longer considered a defenseless player, a defender may be able to hit him below the knees. However, this is subject to the discretion of the officials, and it is still generally advised to avoid targeting the lower legs to prevent injury.

In addition to the rules, there is also a cultural aspect to consider. Football is a sport that values respect and sportsmanship. Players are expected to play within the spirit of the game, which includes protecting opponents from unnecessary harm. Hitting a quarterback below the knees is generally frowned upon, even if it is technically allowed under the rules.

In conclusion, while it is technically possible to hit a quarterback below the knees in certain situations, the rules and the spirit of the game strongly discourage such actions. The emphasis is on player safety, and the rules are designed to prevent injuries that can have long-lasting effects on a player's career and well-being.

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In that situation, no defensive player rushing unabated can hit him forcibly at or below the knee. The defensive player also may not initiate a roll or lunge and forcibly hit the quarterback in the knee area or below.Apr 16, 2014read more >>