What is the preferred mechanic for spotting the ball?
In the Alabama/ MissState game a third down play had a receiver tackled near the yard to gain. The Head Linesman marks a spot with his foot and when given the ball places the back end at his foot which extends the length of the ball toward the first down line. He then turns around to look at the chains and rules first down.
The chains were on the Alabama side of the field so the Rebels are crying
" Homer"!
Video of the play is on YOU TUBE.
Ref moving spot of the ball for alabama first down - YouTube
So how are officials taught to spot the ball?
Does the foot represent the front of the ball or the back of the ball?
Or is that decision an individual choice?
Just curious.