Quote:
Originally Posted by Rich
You know, I'm all for not asking captains (at all, I usually ask the coaches from a distance if I can), but the difference between keeping the ball as B and making A punt again is far from obvious. Making this a double foul is far from obvious. Even if they get the ball at the 15 or 20, I'm asking the question. Many teams aren't fond of their punt return teams, etc. and would simply prefer taking the ball.
Also, I'd want the coach to know he had the option of keeping the ball and not give A another 4th down play. If I don't do that, I think I'm being negligent in my duties.
I'd ask in a college game, too.
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You know Rich, if I was on your crew in that situation, I would be OK with you asking. I honestly do not care either way.
Also this is a situation that if done right you would hardly have to ask. The wing or other officials should already get to the coach and tell them they can replay the down or they can take the ball with a penalty assessed. That should take 5 seconds to get that information and we would be moving at a quick pace. And I cannot think of many situations where the team would not just make it a double foul as they want to take their chances to get a better result then being on their side of the field at their 35 yard line. This to me is like asking when the FG angle might change after a false start or encroachment, there are times they can decline the yardage but we rarely ask. I am OK with what the crew is comfortable with. Just because I might have a personal view, that view does not override my crew.
Peace