[RookieDude]

Since we are talking about D-1 officials and their mechanics, as compared to NFHS, I have a few observations.

I'm trying very hard to watch as many 3-whistle games as I can, as we are using the 3-whistle mechanics at our state tournaments this year in WA state.

I have to say though...that if I officiated a game using some of the D-1 mechanics I see on television...I most assuredly will be watching the championship game and not working it.

This is not to say that the D-1 officials are using improper mechanics...it is just that they seem to have more leeway to incorprate more of their personality while officiating. It also seems that "the powers above" care more about a well called and managed game than standardized mechanics. (Some might use the word "robotic")

Oh yeah...those observations:
* Both T and C mark a 3-point attempt. You do that in NFHS and an observer might ask you, "why are both of you looking at the same thing?" In NFHS we mirror the touchdown signal, as a T or C, but do not mark the shot together.

* As previously stated...I've seen many D-1 officials not give a Backcourt count. A no-no in NFHS.

* I have seen Lead officials not "chop" in the time when administering a throw-in at the endline. Also, sometimes no 5 second count on a throw-in.

* After a called foul the official will "walk and talk". Again, a no-no in NFHS...they want us to go to the reporting area, stop and give the signals.

* After a called foul the D-1 official may or may not give a preliminary as to what type of foul was called. In NFHS they want us to "tell a story"...fist up, bird dog optional, give foul signal, say number and color of offending player, give number of player fouled to partners, show where ball will be taken OOB if no FT's.

* Of course you see many D-1 officials giving non-prescribed foul signals...slapping their head, tugging their shirt, throwing a leg out, etc.

* Positioning of T and C varies quite a bit from what I have observed. Many times I have seen two T's and/or the C staying at the top of the key extended. The D-1 officials may feel they can get a better angle...but we are told not to have two T's if we can help it. Two C's are not as bad, but we are instructed to rotate as soon as possible.

Maybe some of you have more to share.

Having stated these...I will say that some of the different mechanics used by D-1 officials actually look smoother to me, but again, will get you in trouble with a NFHS observer, IMO.