Helping the runner??

[Bullycon]

What the heck was wrong with those announcers? Agreeing 100% with your helping the runner call? Has no one told them that they are supposed to be ignorant and accusatory when you call such a rare foul?

Count me in with those wondering why a U would ever call illegal formation for less than seven men on the line. Seems like a very easy thing for the L and LJ to call, allowing the U to keep his focus on the snapper, linemen and free blocking zone.

Good job on all three plays, though.

[bbcof83]

Your crew nailed all three calls. Regarding the assisting the runner: I bet the "elders" said something about how the guy was going to score no matter what, his linemen had a great push going and the assistance was not the reason he scored. But I say this is what that rule is intended for, good job.

As for the U calling illegal formation, I disagree and so does the NFHS Officials Manual:
UMPIRE
A. After the ball is spotted:

2. Check the following:

a. Number of A players
b. Five players numbered 50 through 79 on offensive line
c. Interference with the snap, a false start or encroachment
d. Disconcerting signals by B
e. Note position of ball between inbounds lines
f. Note B's players on the LOS in the FBZ

LINESMEN
A. After ball is spotted:

5. Check the following:

d. Minimum of seven offensive players on the LOS

[mbyron]

Originally Posted by Bullycon

What the heck was wrong with those announcers? Agreeing 100% with your helping the runner call? Has no one told them that they are supposed to be ignorant and accusatory when you call such a rare foul?

I was impressed that the announcers seemed to know the foul based on the preliminary signal. Maybe they had a signal chart in front of them...

[Forksref]

That U must have tremendous depth perception.

I've never heard of the U watching for that. As mentioned above, he should be worrying about G-C-G, snap infractions, etc.