crazy, and often time ridiculous scrambles where one wrestler would have is back exposed to the mat but since there was no control by the other wrestler nothing would happen.

This rule states that if the two wrestlers are in a neutral position, if one has his back exposed (i.e. less than 90 degrees and within 4 inches of the mat) for a count of 5, the other wrestler is awarded a takedown. The idea is that the other wrestler has demonstrated enough control to have received back points if in control.

This rule was HUGE in changing the trajectory of wrestling. Prior to it being implemented, there were waaaaay too many stalemates called with one kid flat on his back in an “uncontrolled” situation.