The rule seems simple enough. The defenders can’t enter the neutral zone. If they do, and the OL moves, then it’s a NZI. If the OL doesn’t, and the defender gets back, no penalty. Also if the defender does NOT enter the neutral zone, no penalty. Since there’s an official looking right down the line and can see these things clearly, it’s a pretty easy call.Isn't the theory that if the OL across from the DL don't move, then it's pretty apparent that the false start down the line wasn't (or shouldn't have been) caused by that DL?
It's hard to apply bright line rules in any endeavor, even football. If the refs took your interpretation of the rule, how many DL would start 1/2 yard off the ball and then try to get the DL to flinch.
I think it’s nonsensical to apply one part of the rule strictly and then totally fudge another part of the rule. Especially because of “how the camera angles are”.
I’m not saying CFB is in error. He’s probably correct. But it’s a huge indictment on the NFL officiating philosophy to care more about the camera angles than actually following the pretty straightforward rule.
As for the attempts by the defense to get the OL to move....well that’s part of the game. The OL just needs to know when the snap is gonna happen and wait for it. And not react to defenders. Football 101.