In collegiate football, specific actions by a player against an opponent are penalized as “targeting.” This foul involves forceful contact against a defenseless player, particularly involving the head or neck area. For instance, a defender launching himself headfirst into a receiver who is already in the process of making a catch could be flagged for this infraction.
This rule aims to enhance player safety by deterring dangerous tackles that carry a high risk of head and neck injuries. Its implementation reflects a growing awareness of the long-term consequences of such injuries. The penalty’s evolution reflects the ongoing effort to balance fair competition with player well-being. Historically, permissible contact in the sport was broader, but rule changes have progressively restricted these actions, leading to the current framework surrounding prohibited contact.
