The fake slide has been ruled illegal in college football. Kenny Pickett, claiming the Unitas Award today and up for the Heisman tomorrow, used the move in the ACC Championship Game to record a 58-yard touchdown run in Pitt’s 45-21 victory against Wake Forest.
If a quarterback attempts to “fake slide,” he will be ruled down at the spot where he attempts the fake. This will be a judgement call by officials. The call will not be reviewable.
The rule will be in effect immediately, though it will be reviewed in the offseason.
The fear is that defenders will not let up, fearing a fake, if a quarterback slides, thus increasing the chances for injury.
