Tail Bone Pads

[BktBallRef]

Originally Posted by Nyjets

Has anyone seen the McDavid pants that have pads built into them? The tail bone pad is very thin and you can't tell the player is wearing one unless you ask them. If we as officials deem these pads as not providing enough protection, are they legal?

They're wearing pads. That's all they need.

However, I disagree with RonRef's attitude toward this issue. As a U, I walk among both teams during pregame warmups, looking at kneepads, butt pads, visors, mouthpieces, and chin straps. It's not a difficult task. If I can find an issue and take care of it prior to the game, then that's good preventative officiating. It also makes for good repoire with the coach, if I can inform him of an issue that allows him to avoid a USC flag during the game. Even more important, I may prevent a kid from getting hurt by his own youthful exuberance.

There's nothing to be gained by ignoring the rule. If an official ignores equipment rules, what other rules is he ignoring?