Not sure I would use the verbal "On", "Off", or "Back" when communicating with a receiver. Seems too ripe for error, especially in a loud stadium. Plus, now you have to concentrate on communicating with the one player instead of watching the line of scrimmage and your partner across the field.
My vote is to start early in scrimmages and first games to educate coaches (again) and receivers as to the meaning of our mechanics. During games, if the team on my sideline is not sharp on their formation/alignment, I'll let the coach know that he is flirting with a foul and remind him that all his receiver has to do is look to me for "On" or "Off". And, if his guys don't get it or take no action and the flag drops, he knows that I've been trying to avert the 5 yds. No problems the rest of the game.
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