Football Official

Football Official

Zebra

Somewhere in, NJ

Male, 62

I've officiated football for over 30 years, now in my 26th on the college level. I've worked NCAA playoffs at the Division II and III level. In addition, I've coached at the scholastic level and have been an educator for over 35 years. I have no interest whatsoever in being an NFL official! Ever!

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514 Questions

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Last Answer on January 23, 2021

Best Rated

Is it legal for defensive linemen to cover receivers downfield before the ball is passed?

Asked by Mr.Not4Gamez over 9 years ago

When you say "cover", if you mean can they defend them, yes. If you mean be in front of them at the LOS, yes. Any defender can "cover" a receiver.

Onside kick. Goes 15 yards in the air. Kicking team catches the ball in the air. Who ball is it ? Oklahoma High school

Asked by Checotahbill about 8 years ago

If there was no receiver in the area who could catch it, it belongs to the kicking team.

Why do referees insist on saying "illegal block in the back"? Has there ever been a "legal" block in the back?

Asked by Frank about 9 years ago

Because that is the foul: illegal block in the back. Is there a "legal" block? Technically you could say yes; in close line play, at the snap, you can block low and in the back.

Can forward progress be stopped by own player?

Asked by Matt about 9 years ago

A player is moving forward until he isn't. If a runner collides with a teammate and falls down, he's down. Once the runner's own action stops propelling him forward - unless he runs backwards of his accord - he has ended his "forward progress".

Why wasn't the first touchdown by packers in today's playoff game reviewed? It looked like his knee went down but it wasn't reviewed.

Asked by AM almost 9 years ago

I didn't see it but in all likelihood it was since all scoring plays are automatically reviewed. It may not have been announced - usually aren't if there's no issue.

if "nigga" is used on the field in football is it a penalty

Asked by mgoblue68 over 9 years ago

Yes. It is disparaging and considered - at the minimum - taunting. Unsportsmanlike conduct.

Pick up football game -
Defender clearly intercepts the ball and as he is going to the ground offensive player grabs the ball. The defensive player never loses possession of the ball, both players come to the ground with two hands on the ball. Is this a simultaneous catch that is awarded to the offense? or an interception?

Asked by Mbud about 8 years ago

Hmmm, pick up game? I'm giving that to the defense. He had the ball; you said clearly. If he was on the ground - on his feet - he has pissrssion.