OPI on quick "screen"

[Bob M.]

REPLY: I agree that the B (or possibly the L) has the best chance of picking this (OPI) up. However, CruiseMan makes a very good point. It is much 'safer' to put the flag down for the OPI and then wave it off if it's determined that the pass didn't cross the NZ then it would be to hold the flag and put it down after the play if you determine the pass did cross the NZ.

[RazorRef]

I agree also with that mechanic, yet I am still trying to get used to it. In the league that I work, quick screens are used a lot. It's hard to throw that flag when you know it's probably going to be picked up. With 7 man, the mechanic that is best used is to have the LJ (who's holding the LOS) to throw is arm back when the pass is behind the LOS. I've become very accustomed to looking at my LJ on all screen plays.

[Kirby]

Originally Posted by RazorRef

I agree also with that mechanic, yet I am still trying to get used to it. In the league that I work, quick screens are used a lot. It's hard to throw that flag when you know it's probably going to be picked up. With 7 man, the mechanic that is best used is to have the LJ (who's holding the LOS) to throw is arm back when the pass is behind the LOS. I've become very accustomed to looking at my LJ on all screen plays.

Given your wings use the arm back mechanic for a pass completed behind the LOS, what mechanic do they use for a backward pass?

[RazorRef]

No signal...In our mechanics, if the pass was forward and incomplete, of course, you would have a whistle. If the pass was backward and incomplete, you would have no whistle. If there were a double forward pass you would have a flag. Therefore, at least according to our bosses, you don't need a signal.