April 12

April 12th in football history marks a day of significant births and pivotal moments that have shaped the sport. From legendary players entering the world to impactful events on and off the field, this date holds a special place in the ongoing saga of American football. Explore the rich tapestry of gridiron heritage tied to this specific day.

This date connects early pioneers of the game with later iconic figures. Rule changes impacting player safety and the evolution of offensive play are also part of April 12th's football narrative. Discover the threads linking the nascent stages of the sport to the modern era through key individuals and landmark decisions.

Before 1940, a clipping penalty was a 25-yard penalty from the spot of the foul. From 1940 to today, the penalty is 15 yards. At some time during the 1990, all levels of football adopted the Block in the Back rule that partially cleaned up the clipping rule further.

Before this change, almost any block from behind was considered a clip. The Block in the back fouls are blocks from behind above the waist and have a ten-yard penalty, while the clip was limited to behind the back below the waist of the offended player.