What is done if a player is caught committing a targeting penalty?

When a player is caught committing a targeting penalty, the appropriate action is to assess a 15-yard penalty, along with the possibility of ejection from the game. Targeting is considered a serious infraction in football because it involves a player making forcible contact with the crown of their helmet against an opponent, often leading to dangerous situations.

The enforcement of a 15-yard penalty serves both to penalize the offending team and to emphasize player safety. The potential ejection is also a critical aspect of this rule, as it deters players from engaging in unsafe behavior on the field. This added accountability aims to maintain a safer playing environment, as targeting can result in serious injuries.