|
The NFL's reasoning was that they would give the receivers time to get back to the huddle.
Rule 4 Article 7 Supplemental notes
The following situations are automatic Referee's time outs -
1 - When there is a change of possession. The game clock will start on the snap.
2 - Any possibility of a measurementfor first down or in consulting a captain about one.
3 - Any time the player who originally takes the snap is tackled behind the line of scrimmage.
Note 1 - The play clock starts at 40 seconds after the tackle.
Note 2 - Prior to the two minute warning of a half, the Referee will allow the recievers to approach the line of scrimmage before giving the wind-the-game-clock signal.
|