NFL Umpire New Position

[Texas Aggie]

I predict they will move the U back to his normal position either this season, or at the latest, next year. Maybe even during the pre-season. This position creates a lot of problems that can't be resolved during preseason. Just a few off the top of my head:

-- this will significantly increase the time it takes to spot the ball in late game situations; right now, the U places the ball down and only has about 7 yards to go to get out of the way -- possibly only 5; in the backfield, he'll have 12-15 minimum.
-- the U asserts himself in the defensive huddle and takes care of issues in the pit; he won't be able to do that now.
-- the R follows the QB; will the U get out of his way?
-- will the R still be on the QB throwing side?
-- now 2 officials need to get out of the way on a punt/FG attempt block
-- there are many things that go on that need to be seen from the defensive side of the ball

I could probably come up with a half dozen more. Besides, they tried this a few years ago in preseason and it wasn't adopted. Why do they think it will work now?