Pre-snap routine

[michaelpr]

Action at the line of scrimmage

Before breaking the huddle
 Count the players
 Verify—down, distance & time
 Make sure defense not in neutral zone

Break huddle to snap (umpire)
 Count players
 Make sure who is on line of scrimmage (who is punched back, is tight end covered)
 Know where the free blocking zone is
 Look for numbering rules
 Watch for improper handling of the ball
 Disconcerting signals by defense

Break huddle to snap (linesmen)
 Establish neutral zone with stance
 Count players
 Read keys to determine your receiver(s) of responsibility
 Count players on the line, must be 7 (look at back field)
 Watch players in motion-follow all the way
 Player movement-false starts, encroachment, illegal shifts

At the snap
 Determine run or pass (read blockers and keys)

Umpire
 Watch for holding, illegal blocks at line of scrimmage
 Move to line of scrimmage if passing play

Line
 Watch wide-out blocking and end of line play
 Be ready to react to sweep your way
 Cover your receivers on a pass

After the play
Line
 Mark forward progress
 Watch for late hits, unsportsmanlike penalties
 Get box and/or chains set

Umpire
 Spot ball