Whistles - Who should blow?

[Ed Hickland]

I'll half way agree with those who feel an echoing whistle on a touchback is a good thing.

But, action away from the play is never good and can't always be whistled away.

What I like to see from officials is use of the voice with phrases such as "OK, it over", "Not it off, play is dead" or something to let them know you are there.

Long touchdown runs when a player decides now is the time for the cheap shot on the lumbering lineman 50 yards from the goal, especially, some idiot offensive player who is about to take away that hard earned touchdown. You cannot use your whistle but a shout, "Don't hit him" saves six points for the scoring team and a lot of explaining for the ref.