[Rich]

Originally Posted by sir_eldren

I still prefer the whole idea that no whistle is needed. Occasionally, when working the wings, I'll have a play come down my side where the guy is tackled, everybody stops and walks away. No whistle. Some white hats are fine with that. Others have a big problem and come in and blow their whistle really late, and it's really odd and out of place.

Earlier this season a "Big Guy" came down from the state offices and gave a great presentation on the fact that whistles are NOT needed if action is stopping or particular things occur on the field. He made a point that even wings don't need to blow their whistles if it's obvious that a play is over. I find it odd, however, that many white hats just sat there and ignored everything that was said by a guy who has more officiating experience at a higher level than these guys will ever get to experience and insist on there being a whistle every play. The whole idea makes me jumpy in a game and I feel prone to have an IW.

What's the story with these guys who think we need a whistle everywhere every time? I think it's great when the next whistle after the ready-for-play is a ready-for-play on the next down. It shows more than just good officiating, but great observation by the players and excellent coaching.

While I'm perfectly happy with a slow whistle, there has to be (in my little opinion) a whistle at some point acknowledging the play is over. From the covering official, of course.