Quote:
Originally Posted by tmagan
When a running back runs into the line of scrimmage near the hash marks, the umpire will not take that ball out of play, however, if the running back is taken down near the out of bounds line, the umpire will ask for a new ball for the next down. What is the criteria in terms of when the umpire should take the ball out of play on a running play?
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When working 6 or 7-man mechanics, a new ball is usually rotated in when the down ends outside the top of the numbers or there is an incomplete pass not quickly retrieved. This relies on good ball boys and good ball mechanics by the sideline officials.
With 5-man mechanics the same ball is usually used during an entire drive unless there is a long incomplete pass.