Why is a Clipping Penalty 15 yards?

Why a 15-yard clipping penalty in football? This significant yardage reflects the high risk of serious leg and back injuries caused by this illegal blindside block below the waist. Understanding the severity and intent behind this safety-focused rule is crucial for appreciating the game's regulations and player well-being. Tune into our football podcast on EventDay: April 12 for deeper insights!

In this podcast episode, we cover many of the day's historical events in the context of American football history.

The substantial 15-yard penalty for clipping underscores the NFL's commitment to player safety. By severely penalizing this dangerous tactic, the league aims to deter players from employing blocks that target vulnerable areas and can lead to career-altering injuries. This hefty penalty serves as a constant reminder of the importance of legal and safe blocking techniques, protecting athletes on every snap.

Explore the evolution of clipping rules and their impact on defensive strategies in our EventDay: April 12 football podcast. We delve into historical context, analyze the rationale behind the 15-yard enforcement, and discuss how coaches and players adapt to maintain a competitive edge while adhering to these critical safety regulations. Join us for an insightful discussion on this key aspect of football.

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.