NCAA makes changes to controversial college football ‘targeting’ rule

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The college football offseason often runs quiet. Once the transfer portal closes, the NCAA rarely generates much news.

This year, the NCAA conducted an extensive review of several FBS rules. They put the polarizing and often controversial “targeting” rule under the microscope.

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Officials approved a significant amendment: first-time offenders will no longer face a “carry-over” penalty for targeting fouls committed in the second half.

Oklahoma Sooners defensive back Reggie Powers III (13) is called for targeting as he collides with Missouri Tigers safety CJ Bass III (30) during a college football game between the University of Oklahoma Sooners (OU) and the Missouri Tigers at Gaylord Family Ð Oklahoma Memorial Stadium in Norman, Okla., on Saturday, Nov. 22, 2025. Oklahoma won 17-6.

Reports indicate the NCAA will test the change on a one-year trial basis. It will apply only to a player’s first targeting offense of the season.

Under the previous rule, any player called for targeting in the second half—regardless of prior offenses—missed the first half of the following game. Now, first-time offenders will avoid that additional penalty.

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Targeting remains one of the toughest rules to enforce in college football. Officials must review each play and determine whether it meets every element of the rule.

Oct 11, 2025; Columbia, Missouri, USA; Missouri Tigers safety Marvin Burks (1) injures Alabama Crimson Tide wide receiver Derek Meadows (30) and is ejected for targeting during the first half of the game at Faurot Field at Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jay Biggerstaff-Imagn Images

Those elements include forcible contact to the head or neck area, leading with the helmet, and whether the player could have avoided the hit. Intent plays a central role in the final decision.

Over the years, fans have criticized the NCAA’s handling of targeting. With this change, the organization has taken a step—albeit a gradual one—toward addressing those concerns.