NFL Umpire position change

[bisonlj]

There will probably be signicant changes in responsibilities with this move that didn't happen when they experimented with it a couple years ago. You may essentially have 2 referees (based on responsibilities) on either side of the offensive back field. For example, the R may take the RG, RT and QB initially while the U will take C, LG, LT, and QB if he rolls to his side. If that happens, the R would then pick up back-side blocking and action while the U would do what the R would normally do on a QB run to that side. Same for other running plays. There will definitely be re-training of keys and responsibilities, especially for the R and U and to some extent the other 5 guys as well. Things they do naturally today will change. It should be interesting. I wonder if and when it will trickle down to lower levels or if they keep it after this 3-year period.

[APG]

In safety move, NFL to reposition umpires in offensive backfield - ESPN

[HLin NC]

Pereira and Johnson both said the umpires may have to be more athletic to accomplish their tasks.

Bye-bye Snickers
Hello granola

[whitehat]

Originally Posted by HLin NC

Bye-bye Snickers
Hello granola

I wasn't aware that "umpires" and "athletic" could be usd in the same sentance...

[Welpe]

Originally Posted by bisonlj

I wonder if and when it will trickle down to lower levels or if they keep it after this 3-year period.

While fully acknowledging that I have no idea how well it will work, I hope it doesn't. I'd rather wear a helmet and stay where we work now rather than go back behind the offense. I just don't see it working well enough in 5-man mechanics and below.

[HLin NC]

I don't think we could use it in 5 man mechanics as at least one wing would have to stay home to monitor the ENZ. That leaves two deep guys to monitor 4 and 5 receiver sets in today's pass happy offenses. It may trickle down but we are going to have to add an official to do it.

[mbyron]

Originally Posted by Welpe

While fully acknowledging that I have no idea how well it will work, I hope it doesn't.

What are you, 90? Quite the stick in the mud today.

I see no reason to assume that the current way is best. Officiating continues to evolve, and we need to keep learning.