The new helmet rule states:
It is a foul if a player lowers his head to initiate and make contact with his helmet against an opponent.
A clarification of this rule suggests that the illegal initiation and contact doesn't have to be targeted to the head or neck (i.e. almost anywhere on the body).
My question deals with those plays wherein a fumble is caused by a defender popping the ball out of a ball carrier's hand due to the defender's helmet making contact with the ball during the course of a tackle attempt.
Now in EVERY SINGLE INSTANCE where I've seen this play occur, it's been a freak happenstance where the defender perfectly (but unintentionally) strikes the ball with the crown of his helmet.
Will this play now result in a penalty?
