NCAA Football Rules Committee approves several rules adjustments

The NCAA Football Rules Committee has passed proposals for multiple rules adjustments regarding player safety and the use of electronic devices during games.

The NCAA Football Rules Committee has passed proposals for multiple rules adjustments regarding player safety and the use of electronic devices during games.

One of the major changes is the expansion of the instant replay official’s role when it comes to calling targeting fouls. The replay official will now be able to stop the game and start the process of calling a targeting foul if an egregious play was missed on the field. 

Coaches would also be able to use electronic devices in the press box and the locker room during the game. These devices would still be prohibited on the sidelines and the field. 

The proposals will now be reviewed by the Playing Rules Oversight Panel, which will rule on them by March 8. If approved, the rules adjustments would become active for the 2016 season.

• Notre Dame WR Corey Robinson named student body president

Three additional rules adjustments have been proposed in hopes of improving player safety. 

Three #FBRules adjustments were approved to enhance student-athlete safety. pic.twitter.com/vntGteILKH

— NCAA Football (@NCAAFootball) February 11, 2016

“These rules changes reflect the continuing effort by the committee to simplify rules and better protect student-athletes,” said Bob Nielson, chair of the committee and head coach at the University of South Dakota.