Illegal Blindside Block
Many years ago, ESPN featured a “Jacked Up” segment when the announcers celebrated massive hits, many of which were in the open field. This statement is not based on empirical evidence, but…
Ready For Play
Read MoreIllegal Blindside Block
Illegal Blocking in the Back
I believe blocking in the back is the foul most often incorrectly flagged. Officials see a block with open hands originating from the side“ish,” and throw a flag. Rule 2-5-2 says, “Blocking…
Facemask Foul
Sometimes, coaches see a runner’s head jerk to the side and yell for a facemask flag. It’s important to understand the facemask foul rule, as not all contact to a player’s helmet…
Don’t be a Quitter
Here is a Ray Lutz “Forward Progress” post from September 26, 2007 (Edited for clarity) Don’t quit on the play; keep officiating. Officiate a full 120 plays. Don’t quit on the passer…
Demonstrated Restriction
Here is a Ray Lutz “Forward Progress” post from August 11, 2012 (Edited for clarity) I like to talk a lot about holding calls because I think a lot of them that…
Consistency
I’ve seen quite a bit of discussion on social media about how states differ regarding guidelines, interpretations, policies, and uniform rules. I want to offer this for consideration: On the first page…
Batting and Kicking are Intentional Acts
Rule 2-2: Batting is intentionally slapping or striking the ball with the arm or hand. Rule 2-24-1: A kick is the intentional striking of the ball with the knee, lower leg, or…
Angle, Proximity, and Movement
If you’ve officiated basketball, you know the importance of moving to achieve the proper angle: 1) to get the correct view through player matchups and 2) to avoid being straight-lined. You’ll hear…