H2h hits penalties apply (supposed to apply) to defenseless players like a WR catching a pass or a QB standing in the pocket or throwing a pass. A RB pounding it between the tackles isn't defenseless, he can lower his helmet/shoulders and brace for the hit or slide if he doesn't want the hit. He can see it coming. That's why you don't see Cam Newton getting all the calls that people cry other QBs get, he essentially declares himself as a runner often and doesn't slide or go out of bounds if a defender is close to him.

Originally Posted by: steveishere 

NEW RULE: A ban on a ball carrier initiating contact with the crown of his helmet in the open field or by a defender while making a tackle.

What the rule changes: A 15-yard penalty will be called if a runner or a tackler initiates forcible contact by delivering a blow with the top/crown of his helmet against an opponent when both players clearly are outside the tackle box (an area extending from tackle-to-tackle and from 3 yards beyond the line of scrimmage to the offensive team's end line). Incidental contact by the helmet of a runner or a tackler against an opponent would not be deemed a foul.

Taking that rule literally for a moment . . . when was the last time we actually saw a running back flagged for leading with the top of his helmet? 😲

Originally Posted by: Nonstopdrivel