The NFL is set to implement a new rule aimed at restricting “cheat motion”, a move that is expected to have a significant impact on some of the fastest offenses in the league, including the Miami Dolphins.
With speed playing a crucial role in their offensive success, the Dolphins have established themselves as one of the top offensive teams in the NFL. A key component of their offensive strategy has been the use of wide receiver speed in motion before snaps. For instance, Pro Bowl receiver Tyreek Hill would utilize his speed to gain an advantage over defenders by executing precise motions prior to the snap.
Teams like the Los Angeles Rams and San Francisco 49ers have also adopted a similar offensive philosophy of speed motion, commonly referred to as “cheat motion”. Hill, who recorded an impressive 1,799 receiving yards last season, proved to be a formidable weapon for Miami with his ability to accelerate past defenders. However, the NFL is now taking steps to curtail such tactics.
According to Pro Football Talk’s Mike Florio, the league will be introducing a new rule this season to address illegal motion. The rule, as outlined in Rule 4, Article 7, states that if an eligible backfield player goes in motion after the last shift and comes to a complete stop, there is no longer a requirement for a full second pause before another player can legally go in motion.
This rule change will pose a challenge for wide receivers like Hill and San Francisco’s Deebo Samuel, who relied on speed motion to gain an advantage. Any team caught using illegal motion will now face a penalty of five yards. Despite illegal motions being subject to penalties in the past, Miami’s precise execution of snaps with speedy receivers gave them an edge. However, the new rule will put a stop to forward illegal motion during speed motion plays.
“Our head coach, he’ll find a way to make a way around that,” Hill commented. “He does a great job of creating schemes for us to get open. That’s why he’s one of the best offensive minded coaches in the game because he does a great job creating these motions. He allows us to tweak it a little bit, but he’ll put his own little spin on it. So, I feel like that we won’t have a problem with that.”
While Hill acknowledged that the wording of the rule change is “crazy”, he expressed confidence in the coaching staff’s ability to adapt and continue to create effective offensive strategies. As he prepares for his third season with the Dolphins and ninth in the league, Hill remains one of the top receivers in the game.
Looking ahead to the upcoming season, Hill teased that the Dolphins have new plays and motions that will surprise their opponents. With a focus on speed, Miami’s offensive identity revolves around creating explosive plays that leave defenses guessing. The new rules will force the Dolphins to adjust their strategies and find new ways to create space on the field.
As the NFL prepares for the implementation of the new rule on “cheat motion”, teams like the Dolphins will need to adapt and evolve their offensive game plans. While the change may present challenges, it also opens up opportunities for innovative strategies and exciting gameplay in the upcoming season.
