Experimental NFL Europe mechanics?

[JRutledge]

Originally Posted by Robert Goodman

Have they given a reason? Or do they just want to encourage holding & not admit it?

The reasoning is based on the fact that some feel it would be safer to have an official in the backfield rather than in harms way with passing routes and a ball carrier running directly at them. I guess the idea it that they can see holding or other infractions from the same position that the referee can. After all this is an experiment because I know of nothing that has anything to do with encouraging holding. This was to avoid official injury and keep them out of direct line of play.

Peace