STATE

State Utilizes Rule

COMMENTS

Colorado

Yes

COLORADO 45/40-POINT MERCY RULE In class A6 – 45-point Mercy Rule will be used. In classes A8, 1A, 2A, 3A, 4A and 5A – 40-point Mercy Rule will be used. In all conference and non-conference games played in Colorado, when a team is ahead at half time by 45/40 or more points, or goes ahead by 45/40 or more points in the second half, the running clock will be used for a remainder of the game. The clock will not stop on: 1. Out of bounds plays 2. Incomplete passes 3.First downs 4. Change of possession (including touchbacks and fair catches) 5. Penalties 6. Scores. The clock will stop as required by rule on: 1. Time-outs (charged and injury) 2. End of period. This rule applies to all regular and post season contests, except the live televised championship games. Under the circumstances described above, the officials will continue to use the standard signals. The timer, prior to the game, will be given instructions by the game officials, and will ignore all signals regarding the clock except those given by the referee. Note: The use of this rule does not eliminate the use of Rule 3-1-3 (page 36) which reads: "A period or periods may be shortened in any emergency by agreement of the opposing coaches and the referee. By mutual agreement of the opposing coaches and the referee, any remaining period may be shortened at any time or the game terminated."