Being A Back Judge Questions

[Ed Hickland]

Originally Posted by JRutledge

The BJ's responsibility first is the goal line (if the ball is outside a certain yard line). Their secondary coverage is the sideline. It would really depend on the play and how long the gain is. It is not realistic to expect the BJ to be on the sideline every time. For one they are watching other things and might be paying attention to something in the middle of the field.

I guess a better response is a question to you. Why do you expect the BJ to be on the sideline every time? Or do you expect the BJ to be on the sideline every time?

Peace

My expectation is that the BJ adjust to the point of attack. Once the POA goes into a side zone he should be on that side of the field but maintain a cushion. If the runner goes OOB he should be 17 yards from the sideline and at least 10 yards ahead of the OOB spot. Maybe he does not make it to the sideline all the time but comes into the side zone and senses whether he should move to the sideline.

Know that requires hustle but is that expectation too much.

My problem is with a BJ standing flat foot on the opposite hash at the end of the play.