Abrupt clapping by an offensive quarterback or interior linemen to initiate a snap count or simulate a silent count signal is strictly regulated and can indeed be penalized as unsportsmanlike conduct or a false start in both professional and collegiate football. Officiating crews enforce strict rules against using sharp, deceptive hand claps or verbal cadence mimicry designed specifically to draw the opposing defensive line into committing an abrupt neutral zone infraction. When referees judge that an offensive player used an artificial or deceptive clap to trick the defense, a five-yard penalty is immediately assessed against the offense.