NCAA Rules Committee approves ejections for above-the-shoulder hits

Louisville Cardinals running back Jeremy Wright (28) is tackled by Florida Gators defensive back Matt Elam (22) as his helmet comes off during the second half of the Sugar Bowl at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome. defeated Florida 33-23. (Crystal LoGiudice-USA TODAY Sports)

Some might call it the next logical step in keeping players of the violent game of football as safe as possible. Others, however, may call it the beginning of the end.

According to Fox Sports South, the NCAA Football Rules Committee has officially approved ejections for players who hit defenseless receivers above the shoulders.

The proposal was unanimously approved.

The potential rules change now moves to the Playing Rules Oversight Panel. Should said panel approve what the Rules Committee already has, the ejection rule will be put into effect for the 2013 season.

As of now, “targeting” is a 15-yard penalty. That rule will remain in place. The ejection rule will be added to the 15-yard penalty as further deterrent.

The committee is headed by Air Force coach Troy Calhoun. He spoke for the entire group when he reported that he wanted to send a message to the entire nation that intentional, helmet-to-helmet hits would not in any way, shape or form be tolerated.

The actual specifics of the new rule, such as whether or not ejections will be subjective or merely under the jurisdiction of the referees on the field, are yet to be hashed out.

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