Chuck

Also, as to your second half, the wide QB can be used in that position. I've seen many plays where a QB actually plays that position. The substitution process of getting the QB in place is not what makes that play work, it's the personnel alignment. Auburn ran their punter onto the field (a substitution" knowing it would cause confusion for Alabama. Running your QB on the field, doesn't cause the other team confusion due to your substitution because he's expected on the field.

Read it again. There is an "or" there. It's not just about simulated replacements, it's about "simulated replacements" OR "substitutions". The entire process.

Unfair Tactics Rule 9-2-2 ARTICLE 2. a. No player shall conceal the ball in or beneath his clothing or equipment or substitute any other article for the ball. b. No simulated replacements or substitutions may be used to confuse opponents. No tactic associated with substitutes or the substitution process may be used to confuse opponents (Rule 3-5-2-e) (A.R. 9-2-2-IVII). c. No equipment may be used to confuse opponents (Rule 1-4-2-e). PENALTY [a-c] 15 yards from the previous spot [S27]. Flagrant offenders shall be disqualified"