We were discussing the topic of "substitution during a time-out" at our association meeting. Several officials indicated that if a coach said this time-out is "only for a substitution," that play would continue as soon as the sub entered the game.

However, Rule 5-11 Art, 1 says "Such a time-out (charged) shall not be reduced in length unless both teams are ready to play before the time-out is over."

I believe college rules allow for a "substitute" time-out, but was curious if anyone had ever had the opposing coach say I want the "full" time allowed, regardless of whether the sub had entered the game.

In NF we give them the full time out unless both teams are ready to play. If they call time out and it is for a sub and the other team wants to take the full time allotted they can

In NF give them the time out...


A few years ago it used to be once the calling team was ready they both had to play.

NCAA allows the "substitution-only" timeout (actually has a separate signal, similar to the travel signal), and also allows the calling team to end a (non-media) timeout when they are ready - a warning horn is sounded, and play resumes 15 seconds later.

In NFHS, both teams must indicate that they are ready in order for a timeout to be shortened.

In the NCAA Rulebook, the NCAAW signal for a sub-only timeout reminds me of a football safety signal. ;)