Can you hit a QB after he throws?

Can You Hit a QB After He Throws?

In the world of American football, quarterbacks (QBs) are considered sacred cows, and hitting them after they throw the ball is considered a no-go zone. But, can you actually hit a QB after he throws? The answer is a resounding "it depends."

The Official Rule

According to Rule 12, Section 2, Article 7 of the NFL Rulebook, defenders are not allowed to make contact with the quarterback unless carried to do so by momentum. This means that if a defender is simply trying to make a tackle or hit the QB, it’s considered a penalty. However, if the defender is carried to the QB by momentum, and the contact is incidental, it’s not considered a penalty.

The Brady Rule

In 2004, the NFL introduced the "Brady Rule," named after Tom Brady, who was a frequent target of cheap shots by defenders. The rule makes it illegal to hit a QB below the knees, as well as to throw them to the ground unnecessarily. This rule was designed to protect QBs from unnecessary and dangerous contact.

What’s Considered a Penalty?

• Hitting the QB below the knees: Any contact with the QB below the knees is considered a penalty.
• Lunging at the QB: Lunging at the QB with the intention of hitting them is considered a penalty.
• Intentionally throwing the QB to the ground: Intentionally throwing the QB to the ground, rather than attempting to tackle them, is considered a penalty.
• Unnecessary roughness: Any contact that is deemed unnecessary and excessive is considered a penalty.

What’s Not Considered a Penalty?

• Incidental contact: If a defender is carried to the QB by momentum and the contact is incidental, it’s not considered a penalty.
• Tackling the QB: If a defender is attempting to tackle the QB and makes incidental contact, it’s not considered a penalty.
• Contact above the waist: Contact above the waist is not considered a penalty, as long as it’s not excessive or unnecessary.

Consequences of Hitting a QB

• Penalties: Hitting a QB after they throw can result in penalties, including 15-yard penalties and even ejection from the game.
• Injuries: Hitting a QB after they throw can result in serious injuries, including concussions, broken bones, and even long-term damage to their health.
• Reputation damage: Defenders who hit QBs after they throw can damage their reputation and be considered dirty players.

QB Protection in the NFL

• Quarterback sack rules: The NFL has rules in place to prevent defenders from hitting QBs after they’ve been sacked.
• Quarterback slide rules: The NFL has rules in place to prevent defenders from hitting QBs who are sliding or attempting to avoid contact.
• Quarterback protection zones: The NFL has designated zones around the QB where defenders are not allowed to make contact.

Conclusion

Hitting a QB after they throw is a sensitive topic in the world of American football. While some defenders may argue that it’s just part of the game, the NFL has rules in place to protect QBs from unnecessary and dangerous contact. As players, coaches, and officials, it’s essential to understand the rules and to prioritize player safety above all else.