{"id":825552,"date":"2026-03-21T18:32:21","date_gmt":"2026-03-21T18:32:21","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.rawchili.com\/nfl\/825552\/"},"modified":"2026-03-21T18:32:21","modified_gmt":"2026-03-21T18:32:21","slug":"ncaa-makes-changes-to-polarizing-college-football-targeting-rule","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.rawchili.com\/nfl\/825552\/","title":{"rendered":"NCAA makes changes to polarizing college football ‘targeting’ rule"},"content":{"rendered":"

The college football<\/a> offseason often runs quiet. Once the transfer portal closes, the NCAA rarely generates much news.<\/p>\n

This year, the NCAA conducted an extensive review of several FBS rules. They put the polarizing and often controversial \u201ctargeting\u201d rule under the microscope.<\/p>\n

MORE: Missouri Tigers name Ole Miss transfer as starting quarterback<\/a><\/p>\n

Officials approved a significant amendment: first-time offenders will no longer face a \u201ccarry-over\u201d penalty for targeting fouls committed in the second half.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/p>\n

Oklahoma Sooners defensive back Reggie Powers III (13) is called for targeting as he collides with Missouri Tigers safety CJ Bass III (30) during a college football game between the University of Oklahoma Sooners (OU) and the Missouri Tigers at Gaylord Family \u00d0 Oklahoma Memorial Stadium in Norman, Okla., on Saturday, Nov. 22, 2025. Oklahoma won 17-6.<\/p>\n

Reports<\/a> indicate the NCAA will test the change on a one-year trial basis. It will apply only to a player\u2019s first targeting offense of the season.<\/p>\n

Under the previous rule, any player called for targeting in the second half\u2014regardless of prior offenses\u2014missed the first half of the following game. Now, first-time offenders will avoid that additional penalty.<\/p>\n

MORE: Florida State kicker arrested on felony charge in South Florida<\/a><\/p>\n

Targeting remains one of the toughest rules to enforce in college football. Officials must review each play and determine whether it meets every element of the rule.<\/p>\n

\"\"Oct 11, 2025; Columbia, Missouri, USA; Missouri Tigers safety Marvin Burks (1) injures Alabama Crimson Tide wide receiver Derek Meadows (30) and is ejected for targeting during the first half of the game at Faurot Field at Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jay Biggerstaff-Imagn Images<\/p>\n

Those elements include forcible contact to the head or neck area, leading with the helmet, and whether the player could have avoided the hit. Intent plays a central role in the final decision.<\/p>\n

Over the years, fans have criticized the NCAA\u2019s handling of targeting. With this change, the organization has taken a step\u2014albeit a gradual one\u2014toward addressing those concerns.<\/p>\n

\u2014 Enjoy free coverage of the top news & trending stories on The Big Lead <\/a>\u2014<\/p>\n

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