Playoff Mentality
Playoffs have begun throughout the country. Here are a few thoughts to consider. Some states augment the crews with extra officials for rehearsal games and for semi-final and championship games. In Colorado,…
Ready For Play
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Back Judge
Here is a Ray Lutz “Forward Progress” post from October 13, 2011 (Edited and amplified for clarity) I have had the opportunity to watch some game film from other crews this week.…
When the Back Judge has the Goal Line
With a 5-person crew in Colorado, the back judge is responsible for the goal line when the ball is snapped outside the B-10. The back judge will be the only official to…
Referee Penalty Announcement
Here are a few suggestions for referees when announcing and signaling penalties: Think of all components of the announcement before you start (especially the down). You don’t want to be in the…
Don’t Appear Lazy or Disinterested
You may have heard the saying, “Smooth is fast.” This saying means performing tasks with calm, controlled movements is ultimately quicker and more efficient than rushing and making mistakes. Smooth, deliberate actions…
Defensive Pass Interference
Ray Lutz shared an article by Jon Bible, a veteran football official from Austin, Texas in his October 27, 2010 “Forward Progress” post. (Edited for clarity) The late Woody Hayes, whose Ohio…
Defensive Holding
Here is a Ray Lutz “Forward Progress” post from September 7, 2009 (Edited and amplified for clarity) It is not only the offense that uses their hands illegally. There are four major…
Incomplete Pass or Catch and Fumble
The definition of a catch in the NFHS football rules book was clarified in 2015: Rule 2-4-1 – “A catch is the act of establishing player possession of a live ball which is…