[SouthGARef]

Here is what's in the Georgia Officials Training manual about bean bags. I think it sums it up nicely:

A. PRIMARY SITUATIONS IN WHICH YOU WOULD USE THE BEANBAG:

Note: The beanbag should be used every time in the following.
1. Marking the spot a ball carrier lost possession of the ball on a fumble.
2. Marking the spot where a kick returner or defensive back gained control of the ball when his momentum carries him into the endzone.
3. Marking the spot where possession of a scrimmage kick is gained by the receiving team on a kick that has crossed the neutral zone expanded.

B. SECONDARY SITUATIONS IN WHICH YOU COULD USE THE BEANBAG:
1. Marking the spot where a ball carrier went out of bounds (in addition to standing on that spot).
NOTE: This mechanic should only be used in a five man crew.

2. Marking the forward progress of a ball carrier when he has been pushed back and there is continuing action on him.
NOTE: This mechanic should be used only by the Referee

C. HOW TO USE THE BEANBAG:
1. Since the beanbag is always used to mark a precise spot, it should be carried to that spot and dropped--or at least dropped on that yard line extended if you are not near that exact spot.
2. Keep the beanbag in your belt or in your hand and develop the habit of using it.
3. At the high school level, there is no need to mark the spot of ever change of possession.
4. Referees may find it helpful to mark forward progress of a passer who is being sacked with the beanbag. The flank officials are generally downfield and cannot help. The passer is being pushed back and the Referee must keep attention on that action. Deopping the beanbag and then moving to retrieve the ball is an easy process.
5. It is not a good idea to drop the beanbag on the out-of-bounds spot and then leave it to retrieve the ball. Even in a crew of four, this should be a last resort. Hold the spot and drop the beanbag just in case an unusual situation arises.