Football Officiating - Ten Pre-Snap Things To Do
The play ends. But the work goes on... what football officials do when the play ends? This is generally true at all levels.
1. Dead ball officiating
Make sure the teams separate and go to their huddles after the play.
2. Line To Gain Made?
If there's a first down, move the chains.
3. Clock matters
Game clock - should it be stopped or continue to run. Play clock - reset for 40 seconds unless there was a change of possession or a penalty on the defense (high school rules).
4. If there's a foul, adjudicate the penalty
Put your flag back in your pocket if you threw it. Check the game clock again to make sure it is running (or not).
5. Confirm the next down with the rest of the crew
Referee & Umpire count offense, Side Judge and Field Judge count defense. Some record the data on the foul(s) committed, if any.
6. Return to your position
Signal if 11 (legal), 10 (not a foul unless not 4 in offensive backfield or the 11th comes on the field late), or 12 or more (flag before the snap if possible (5 yard penalty) or during the play (15 yard penalty).
7. Count players on one of the teams
Who you're supposed to start the play watching. This changes based on the action when the play starts.
8. Identify your keys
If you have the game clock, get ready to start if it is stopped. If you have the play clock, walk onto the field with 10 seconds left, signal the last five seconds. Flag for delay of game if offense doesn't snap before the play clock is out.
9. Clock, again
Settle in and have a clear mind for the snap.
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