Experimental NFL Europe mechanics?

[Robert Goodman]

Originally Posted by eyezen

I too caught some of the first part of the game while channel surfing...and they had explained it was mainly because of the safety factor. However one thing I noticed was how weird it was not seeing the U at the end of the play and how long it took to for him (or someone else) to run up and spot the ball...I wonder what kind of impact that will have in hurry up situations?

It was only a few years ago that they reassigned that task from R to U.

Recently I viewed some film from the 1940s in which 3-man mechanics was used. On some scrimmage downs the U started in a wing position, and as or before the ball was snapped (sometimes as the OL got into 3-pt), moved toward the present U's position. In others the U started in the present position.

Robert

[BigGref]

As a varsity U I have not been knocked down in 3 years, a lot of close calls though. The only time I was down was when I voluntarily went chest first to the ground when my feet got tangled and the QB and rusher were coming at me fast (as Referee in Flag football) they jumped over me and then I jumped up quick like a grass cutter . I am rather large (yes, I do perpetuate the large umpire stereotype) and have knocked down more than a few people, but knowing where to go and when is the issue, so I think others will just have to learn.

This sounds too weird! half of the reason of an umpire is in the defensive backfield is to help control the trenches, and be right on top of the ball when it comes down to prevent extracurricular activities; being 3-4 seconds away on a 5-10 yd rush down the middle could be a greenlight for extras!

[Bob M.]

REPLY: I agree with BigGref's opinion that the value of the umpire's 'traditional' positioning is not that obvious during the play, but rather after the play has concluded. The faster an official can get to a pile, the less likely something untoward will occur. When the players know that an official is close by ("OK guys, it's over"), they are not as likely to get into it with an opponent.

[NickelDeuce]

The umpires will still be responsible for getting to the pile, however I do agree that they will be a step or two slower getting there than they were in the past. And the step or two may be all that it takes to get something going. We'll see how it works.

[Forksref]

I could have used a helmet when I got knocked down a couple of times in college games as the BJ. Overzealous d-backs are not to be messed with! Stay away from the pile. As for the U wearing a helmet, if it ever gets to the HS level, they'll be issuing skirts!

"Quarterbacks should wear dresses." - Steelers linebacker Jack Lambert