Wing signal for backward pass
 

Which wing official (or other) (5 man) is supposed to make the call on forward vs. backward pass? the one it is being thrown to or away from?

On my crew no one punches backwards. We prefer not to do it that was so we can avoid conflicting signals and whistles.

Peace

In my crew, primary responsibilty is to the wing who's side the ball is thrown to. Ultimately it's his call to live or die from. The off side can give assistance. When in doubt kill it. In my mind no one signalling leads to indecision and confusion.

Canadian Mechanic
 

CANADIAN MECHANIC:

Mostly to, but either if one guy had to bail to cover a long route.

I was taught that the official away from the throw should make the call. The guy on the side of the throw has more to worry about. Frankly I agree with the mechanic because I feel I can make a better backwards judgement on balls that are thrown away from me than throws towards me.

In Fed 5 man, it's the guy the ball is thrown towards. In NCAA 7 man, it's the LJ's responsibility.