punters protection

Question
Frequently we now see a "punter" who will run with the ball looking to choose between run or pass or kick.  How much "protection" does he get if he decides to kick? A defender will almost always commit to the run, giving him little opportunity to avoid hitting a player who suddenly decides to kick. Saw this in a high school game today. No way the tackler could avoid hitting the runner who suddenly became a kicker, despite the fact that the runner/punter got the kick off.  Roughing, first down.  Bad call in my opinion, and I've been coaching High school ball for over 20 years.

Answer
Hello John Paul.

I apologize for the late response.

I have also experienced this play since I have been coaching. Unfortunately, it is a good call. He an do whatever he wants back there, but the defender still cannot hit him when he attempts to kick. The only time he can be hit is on a fumbled punt. Normally if he mishandles the snap. Not bobble the snap, but actually fumble it. They have been trying to implement the "outside" the tackle rule for a few years. Meaning, if he runs outside of the tackles, even if he attempts to kick, he is now considered a runner. And he can be hit.

I hope that I have answered your question in a way to help you.

Coach Art