[Mike Simonds]

Here is what I do between downs (please add your comments, suggestions, and check-lists for umpire and the other positions):

Dead-ball officiate for personal fouls and unsportsmanlike conduct. Always scan around the ball.
Secure ball and place at spot of forward progress or previous spot. I like to ask the centers before the game how they like the ball placed.
Signal down and distance with R, HL, and LJ.
Remind R when clock will start (snap or ready).
Move to position upon ready for play.
Count offense (in huddle if possible) and signal R.
When OL comes to LOS note proper numbering. Keep the 5 OL and related D players in field of vision. Keep the ball in view at all times prior to snap.
Check OL for shifts, false starts, snap infractions.
Check B for illegal signals intended to make A encroach or false start.

I would appreciate advice at this point. I learned on my own that its hard to watch 5 OL and 4 or 5 D players all at the same time. So at the snap I focus on the center and one of the guards. I try to pick-up the direction of the play from their initial blocks and then shift my attention to that area. Every now and then I'll observe one of the OT and the DE. When the play is developing I try to scan, focus, and react, repeating this process during the play and the dead ball period afterwards.

The mechanics manuals seem vague to me about what I should be looking at during the play. I am very interested in learning how I can improve my observation skills at the umpire position. How many players should I be observing at one time? What keys can I read to focus my attention at the proper place? When should I start moving when the flow of the play is going away from me? If the hole opens up right in front of me should I move sideways, step forward, or hold my ground? The more specific you can be the better.