Mull it over

[waltjp]

Originally Posted by BoBo

thank you for reassuring my thoughts.

now when does elgibility begin in this situation?

when the center places his hands on the ball?

You determine eligibility when everyone is set. The position of the snapper's hands have no bearing.

i am sure we have all had this play and 88 begins as inelgible, then we have a had a bad snap and i am sure he goes out for a pass.

Honestly how many of us miss/let this go?

It's my job (umpire) to see that we don't miss this. The first time I see this formation I'll make a mental note of anyone who's ineligible by position. As soon as I get a chance I'm writing those numbers on my game card.

Explaining the rule to the coach will be lots of fun. And I am sure it will respond "we have always done it this way and it has never been flagged before"

Give this comment the same credence as you do any other similar comment from a coach. You weren't at last week's game and have no way of confirming if they did get away with this.