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Originally Posted by Robert Goodman
I think it'd strongly affect the game. Like when the IWFL (or at least the local team) cheaped out and went to 4 man crews -- fine if you have games with little or no passing, but when they pass a lot it really affects the game vs. the 5- or 6-man crews other leagues were using.
Robert
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We're in a place where the schools' association has steadfastly refused to go to 5-man. Speaking from that experience, the difference between four and five officials on the field is immense, and moving from five to four is a really poor decision.
Moving the umpire to the offensive backfield would be an order of magnitude worse. (And this from the guy that HATES to work in the umpire slot.) His presence on the defensive side of the ball has such a positive effect on game control that no amount of improved visibility (which I question anyway) is worth giving that up.