What should a referee signal if a quarterback is hit late during a play?

When a quarterback is hit late during a play, the referee should signal for a personal foul, which results in a 15-yard penalty. This is due to the protection rules in place for quarterbacks, designed to ensure their safety and allow them to perform their duties without unnecessary risks. A late hit is classified as an act that occurs after the quarterback has released the ball or when they are considered to be in a defenseless position.

By signaling a personal foul, the referee is enforcing the rules that address player safety and promoting fair play. The 15-yard penalty helps to deter aggressive and potentially dangerous behavior towards quarterbacks. This response adequately addresses the severity of the infraction and reinforces the need for respect and control during the game.

In contrast, the other responses do not align with the rules governing such play. A warning may suggest that the behavior was only marginally inappropriate, while unsportsmanlike conduct is generally reserved for actions not related to direct contact with opponents during play. Finally, a lack of a signal would fail to recognize and penalize a significant infraction that threatens player safety.