Chuck, I don't really think using the stop clock mechanic is the answer. I say this because using rainmaker's method can buy you time if you get the color and delay the point. Using the stop clock mechanic commits you to using that arm and in order to stay open you have to use the correct arm. I think when starting out you just have to gain experience and repitition. If you do this enough you will get it. It will become second nature to use the stop clock mechanic with the correct hand and point with that same hand.

I just read my post again and I want to make it clear that I'm not saying to point without the mechanic to stop the clock. I'm just saying that this alone isn't the answer. I think that the fact that an official realizes this as something that needs work after having done 4 games shows a desire to get better and/or good training. There are some vets that use both arms for this or cross their body.

Hey could someone round up one of those really cool guys and get them on this board? I've got some questions...

Chuck, everyone has trouble there first few games getting the "directions to point" mixed up. I suggest at first until you get used to the directions, on an out of bounds play, just stop the clock (palm in the air) and yell the right color, and just dont point, or delay, yell the color immediately, then realize the direction your going, then point.

Good thought, Steve. Thanks ;)

The words that come out of your mouth may be, "First horn, coach." But what's really being communicated is probably closer to, "Let's keep things moving along, coach. I know you really need another minute, but I can't let you have it. It's time to start wrapping it up now."