Everyone Stop the Clock!
I mentioned in a previous Ready for Play article I watch a lot of Hudl video during the week. One mechanics issue I see in every game is multiple officials fail to…
Ready For Play
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NFHS – NCAA Rules Differences
In 2022, there were 534 rules differences between the NFL and NCAA and 263 rules differences between the NCAA and NFHS. Coaches and spectators often complain about a decision we make based…
Quarter Change
Swapping ends of the field and moving the chains at the end of the first and third quarters is not just a head linesman’s responsibility. As with penalty enforcement, the entire crew…
Appreciation
Here is a Ray Lutz “Forward Progress” post from August 31, 2009 (edited for clarity). Let us remember without players, coaches, administrators, and parents, we would not have a game to officiate. …
Ants, Elephants, and Greyhounds
Here is a Ray Lutz “Forward Progress” post from August 15, 2010 (edited for clarity). There is an old officiating maxim that says, “Don’t flag ants; always flag elephants, and never make…
Wing Imperatives
I watch many high school football plays on Hudl during the week and often see the same wing mechanics mistakes from numerous wing officials. Here are the top five: Eye Discipline during…
Counting
Counting players is one of the most essential pre-snap routine components. We need to verify the correct number of players are on the field at the snap. Here are a few counting…
Preventative officiating
Preventative officiating involves communicating essential information to players and coaches to help facilitate the game. Sharing critical information with coaches helps them understand game nuances and removes communication barriers. It helps ensure…