Consistency is the key.
As for movement by the backs prior to the snap, our association allows them the opportunity to reset before the snap. If they don't then we call either an illegal shift or illegal motion.
When I was just starting out at the umpire position I flagged the fullback for a false start and the referee jumped all over my hide.
Now that I've been an umpire for about 5 years I happily let the referee and the wings watch the backs.
We have a team over here that will shift into a punt formation when its 4th down and less than 5 yards to go. Their shift might be flagged for a false start by some other associations.
I understand that the rule regarding false starts can be tricky when applied to the offensive backs. The case book does not offer any plays regarding backs other than the quarterback. Is there any further guidance out there?
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Mike Simonds
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