[Mike Simonds]

First off I want to state that the technique described above is definitely holding. Like you gentlemen have stated, holding is not just only grabbing but also includes restraining an opponent in any manner not allowed by rule.

Here are two more techniques I've observed over the years:

1. The blocker starts out legally with the open hand technique on his opponent's chest but lets one arm slide around the upper arm and he ends up clamping the defender's upper body. His hand ends up on the defender's shoulder blade (upper back area).

2. The blocker starts out legally but a quick defender has him beat to the inside or outside (usually on a punt play or a deep-drop pass play) and the blocker will fall down and hook the defender by ankles or lower legs.

3. Often the most difficult form of holding to detect is when the blocker keeps his hands in on the defender's chest or under his armpits (or shoulder pads) and then grabs the jersey turning a legal open-hand technique into holding. Its a shame but this is the technique that is being coached today by many schools because it is a deliberate attempt to break the rules.

Its true, holding is probably the call that requires the most judgement.