Penalty mechanics for the R

[ref1986]

Our most recent mechanics have no preliminary signal on the routine dead ball fouls -- false start, encroachment, delay, pretty much anything except USC and PF. On DB fouls I don't even talk to the captain. The exception would be if there is a choice of enforcements, such as on the try or kickoff. Then I'll give a preliminary signal so the coach can decide what he wants to do. That's the real purpose of the preliminary signal -- to give the coach a chance to decide what he wants to do.

There are some live ball fouls where I may not give a preliminary signal either -- OPI/DPI for example. There is no decision for the coach to make.

Even when I give a preliminary signal, I don't wait until the U has finished marking it off to give the final signal. I'll do it as he's walking.