When the NCAA declined to change the eligible-man-down-field rule in an apparent attempt to curb the popular "pop pass", few thought much, if anything, of the other minor rule changes that were passed and announced concurrently.
One, however, may directly impact Ohio State. Or more specifically, Buckeyes star running back (and preseason Heisman Trophy front runner) Ezekiel Elliott.
Though a debate broke out quickly in some Ohio State circles as to whether or not the rule would pertain to Elliott, whose back pads weren't always visible, Elliott was told to lower the jersey enough times by officials during the 2014/15 season (including in college football's championship game), formal legislation prohibiting his ability to do so seemed only a matter of time.
Elliott told Bleacher Report's Ben Axelrod last season the reason he wore the jersey up was somewhat as a competitive advantage. "I like my jersey tucked up ... I don't like people being able to grab on me," he said.
And don't think the news is being taken lightly by the Elliott family. Ezekiel's father, Stacy, is not a fan of the new restriction:
Midriff ban
One, however, may directly impact Ohio State. Or more specifically, Buckeyes star running back (and preseason Heisman Trophy front runner) Ezekiel Elliott.
Though a debate broke out quickly in some Ohio State circles as to whether or not the rule would pertain to Elliott, whose back pads weren't always visible, Elliott was told to lower the jersey enough times by officials during the 2014/15 season (including in college football's championship game), formal legislation prohibiting his ability to do so seemed only a matter of time.
Elliott told Bleacher Report's Ben Axelrod last season the reason he wore the jersey up was somewhat as a competitive advantage. "I like my jersey tucked up ... I don't like people being able to grab on me," he said.
And don't think the news is being taken lightly by the Elliott family. Ezekiel's father, Stacy, is not a fan of the new restriction:
Midriff ban
