Chop Block Penalty in Football

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What is a Chop Block Penalty?

The Chop Block penalty is called when an offensive player blocks an opposing player below the thigh area. The defensive player must already be getting blocked from another player in order for this to be a penalty.

Number of Yards

There is a 15 yard penalty in both the NFL and College Football.

The Signal

When signaling the Chop Block penalty the referee will drop both arms straight down the outside of their body and turn the palms of both hands upwards and pointing forward. The referee will then make a chopping motion toward their thigh.