Presnap routines

[Zebra29]

BBW = Block below the waist.



My pre-snap routine is the following for a normal scrimmage down: (I work as a Back Judge)


Confirm the down with at least one other official (visually and verbally). Adjust indicator accordingly. If it's after a penalty or first down, I'll relay clock status to other members of the crew.

Start moving (usually backing) to my position, 25 yards from the LOS.

Make sure the 25-second clock starts on the RFP.

If in my field of vision, mentally note the time on the game clock.

Count the defense. Count a second time if I have a chance before the offense breaks the huddle. Count a third time if I come up with a number different than 11.

As the offense breaks its huddle, signal to my S, then my F (extended thumbs-up in front of my body) that I have just counted 11 defensive players, usually along with verbally saying "11 [Color]" to each of them. (i.e. "11 Red") I do it at the break of the offense's huddle so that the 3 of us always know when to signal each other, and when to look for each other's signal.

Check the offensive formation, find all eligible receivers, and determine my key.

Move to a position (if necessary) to get a better view on action on and by my key, keeping the 25-second clock in my field of vision.

Read the defensive secondary to determine the type of coverage. (Knowing the coverage helps determine where and how the offense might try to attack it, putting me in better position)

Mentally say the numbers of the defenders in the secondary in the area of my key (helps when calling/reporting fouls)

If my key is not in press coverage or is an uncovered TE on the LOS, I'll key in on the strong side OT for a quick read. If my man is challenged, I don't take my eye off of him. If the 25-second clock is getting close, that's where my focus is until the snap.

At the end of the play, I do it all over again.