In the last couple of years, some crews in our area have moved the umpire into the offensive backfield on a punt formation (either 4-man or 5-man crews). He is situated opposite the referee. Do any of you have any experience with this? I must be old-fashioned in that I don't think there is any value in it. The referee should be able to cover the kicker. Maybe the umpire doesn't want to get in the way of the lineman for both teams going downfield, but this seems a minor reason to make this move. Is this move in any officials manuals? Any comments?

That is the way the NFL does it. It gets the umpire to where he can see the holding by K easier and doesn't have to worry about all of R and K trying to get past him after the kick.

I noticed that in the Bills/Rams pre-season game, the crew did not use this mechanic.

Not sure I'm coninced this mehanic adds any value, I've yet to see a U throw a holding call from this position.

It's my belief that in 4th down situations, you're more likely to have a savy snapper flex his hands to draw B across the line. I'd much rather have my U looking for that or other snap infractions. The wing men might not see this foul big enough.

I agree with TimGav. I'd rather have coverage of the line.