In American football, this action refers to a specific foul committed by a player against an opponent. It involves contacting a defenseless opponent above the shoulders with the crown of the helmet, or initiating contact with the head, shoulder, forearm, fist, elbow, or hand to strike, or thrust upward into, an opponent’s head or neck area. For example, a defensive player launching himself headfirst into a receiver who has just caught a pass could be flagged for this penalty. The specific criteria for this foul can vary slightly between different levels of play (NFL, college, high school).
This rule exists primarily to protect players from dangerous and potentially catastrophic head and neck injuries. Its enforcement emphasizes player safety and aims to reduce the occurrence of concussions and other serious trauma. The rule has evolved over time, reflecting increasing awareness and concern surrounding head injuries in the sport. Penalties for this infraction can range from significant yardage penalties to player ejections, depending on the severity and context of the foul.