[Reginald Rutledge]

to answer this but I will explain from the Shootout perspective.

One of the things about the the defensive schemes in the Shootout style is that all parts work hand-in-hand. The logic behind the safeties spinning in motion is similar to safeties being out of position on pass plays.

If the defensive schemes are correct, the safety will not be out of place. This is based on a 2-second rule of thumb it takes to get to the QB. Also, from the Shootout perspective, it gives the safeties the opportunity to shine, to show their speed, and athleticism after a read-and-react situation.

Furthermore, from my perspective, it gives TTC bases a viable part in the defensive schemes. With players on magnets standing still, in my opinion, it just make people go out and get simply speed bases able to move straight ahead. That takes me back to rule sets that preach hitting the receiver and angle him to go straight ahead to score. It takes the preparation time out of putting an 11-man defensive unit together based on elements of football that promote team chemistry.

From a physics standpoint, if anyone knows anything about magnets on metal, it creates a type of gravitational force that make it impossible for little football figures to move. Some people hide behind, "Well, he's a long ways away from the play so it should not be a problem?" If I push a player into a stationary man that does not move, even on one play, that is a problem because that play may be so crucial to the outcome of a game. The magnet thing is the very reason I do not play in the DFW League because most people lacked the knowledge to understand the impact of magnets. You argue it to those who are not knowlegeable and want to win at any cost, not understanding that it is really a method of cheating.

Honestly, I see no problem with prongless bases at the safety position other than the lack of "having to know your player" in the read-react scenario. In certain situations, he will still be out of place. And then, what would be the excuse or argument.

Andre, I may not intelligently be able to give you the answer that you are looking for but as the author of a ruleset that I tried to apply my logic as an athlete, student of the game, and MF'er. This is how I justify the logic I have under the Shootout Ruleset. You may be talking about other rulesets, and that's what I am assuming, but it does give me a chance to clarify any misunderstanding about rules which have worked pretty darn good for over 35 years.

Reginald Rutledge