False Start?

[Canned Heat]

I can see both sides of this one. I do agree that the officials and opposing team were up to snuff on this as well. I'd have a tough time eating a whistle if I didn't know this was coming...I just wonder about the legality of it. It does somewhat simulate a snap, but both men that go in motion start backpedalling and going backwards when they make their moves. Interesting.

[ajmc]

Interesting is a good description. Had the defense responded to the movement, I doubt anyone would have a problem with a "False start" flag. As the defense did not respond negatively, the actions may have surprised the covering officials, and coupled with the defensive lack of reaction and no advantage being gained, exercised remarkable whistle control.

I wouldn't be surprised if the Referee, following the change of possession, might have whispered in the offensive Head Coach's ear, that the movement may have caught the crew off stride, but in retrospect it may have been really close to violating the "False Start" rule and his crew will be surely be prepared to rule on that, should they ever see it again.