What is the result of a false start by the offense?

A false start by the offense results in a 5-yard penalty from the original line of scrimmage. This infraction occurs when an offensive player moves abruptly or simulates the start of the play before the ball has been snapped, which is not allowed as it can disrupt the defense's ability to prepare for the play.

The enforcement of a 5-yard penalty is significant because it emphasizes the importance of discipline and timing in offensive play. Such infractions are treated as minor violations and do not carry the severity of losing a down or potential yardage that would apply to other types of penalties. This means that after a false start, the offense still retains the same series of downs but is set back 5 yards, making it a strategic penalty for the offensive team to manage.