Offensive Linemen Numbering Requirements

Originally Posted by NewGaRef

Had a discussion this weekend where we had an interior lineman with the number 90 and the TE with the number 57. Someone indicated this was an illegal formation. This team never passed the ball and we always had at least five on the line numbered 50 - 79. Is there a problem with an interior lineman wearing 90? What if number 57 lined up out wide but never went out for a pass, any problems?

Bear in mind, some state associations make exceptions for sub-varsity games. I know Iowa has it in their football manual that officials should have flexibility at games below the varsity level regarding number sits like this with the understanding the coach must report it before the game so the officials can notify the opposing coach.

Nebraska has said in the meetings they encourage the schools to follow the rule for sub-varsity games, but tell the officials don't make a big deal out of it at that level as long as the coach notifies us before the game. We always try to notify the opposing coach in some manner. Some are usually like, ok, whatever, although we've had a handful here who screams for a flag even though they've been notified ahead of time. It just sickens me the sub-varsity guys are NOT required to go to the rules meetings like the varsity head coaches and the officials.