Today, when the offense commits a foul while behind its goal line, the defense earns a safety if the enforcement of the penalty would leave the ball on or behind the goal line.
If you're looking for more instances of the unfair act rule awarding points, Wake Forest quarterback Larry Russell entered the field of play to stop a tackle during the 1971 NC State-Wake Forest game. Trailing 15-14 with time running out, Wake Forest sent out kicker Chuck Ramsey to attempt a 51-yard field goal in a driving rain. The kick fell short, allowing Bill Miller to catch the ball and begin sprinting down the field for what was believed to be a sure touchdown. Suddenly, Wake Forest’s quarterback, Larry Russell, tackled Miller from out of nowhere. The play would have saved the Deacon's comeback hopes, except for one problem: Russell had started the play on the bench and tackled illegally. Eventually, Miller was awarded a 69-yard touchdown, and Wake went on to lost 21-14.
If you're looking for more instances of the unfair act rule awarding points, Wake Forest quarterback Larry Russell entered the field of play to stop a tackle during the 1971 NC State-Wake Forest game. Trailing 15-14 with time running out, Wake Forest sent out kicker Chuck Ramsey to attempt a 51-yard field goal in a driving rain. The kick fell short, allowing Bill Miller to catch the ball and begin sprinting down the field for what was believed to be a sure touchdown. Suddenly, Wake Forest’s quarterback, Larry Russell, tackled Miller from out of nowhere. The play would have saved the Deacon's comeback hopes, except for one problem: Russell had started the play on the bench and tackled illegally. Eventually, Miller was awarded a 69-yard touchdown, and Wake went on to lost 21-14.
I will add it to the story. Thanks
I love it that the NFL calls it a "palpably unfair act". A great use of the word "palpably".
Maybe it'll come up this season, just so the commentators can have fun with it ..