Field Goal Responsibilities

[ajmc]

The recent suggested mechanics revision of either wing official moving downfield based on where the Referee positions himself, to avoid leaving a sideline uncovered seems reasonable. Clearly that should be something discussed in a pre-game, including what signal, reminder or instruction will be given when each situation arises during the game. Actually telling a specific wing official doesn't seem unreasonable, should eliminate any confusion and seems about as fullproof as possible.

As for moving the Umpire, that's something new and worth at least a try, but the obvious disadvantages seem to outweigh the possible advantages, considering that the very nature of most FG situations presents additional focus on line play because of the defense's efforts to disrupt, or block, the attempt.

[Texas Aggie]

We always have the LJ go under. I've never heard of a HL going under, but I guess some places are different. But frankly, I think any mechanic putting the HL under is silly. Who instructs the down box if there's a penalty?

R lines up wide on the open sideline and is ready to cover the sideline on a run. If a pass, the LJ needs to get over to the sideline as quickly as possible and BJ has the end line. This is one area where U may be n the best position to cover the goal line.

Now, if there's a block and its going the other way...

[3SPORT]

5-Man in Nevada, we have the Umpire/BJ underneath. The coverage issues in the middle are a concern but we feel the coverage is needed on the sides for breakdowns or fake plays.

[Mike L]

In our area, it's BJ & LJ always. If the play breaks down and it goes to the LJ side, the LJ & R just have to haul buns.
I would think switching which line guy covers according to where the R's butt is pointing only produces confusion/delay and only gives the R a few yard head start anyway for the "open" sideline coverage.