Initial Keys and Priorities For Back Judges and Wings

Keys and Priorities A key is where one’s initial attention is focused Help determine coverage at the snap only –Avoids “who do I have” They do not necessarily determine coverage for the entire play

How are Keys Determined? Based on the Strength of Formation –Determined by the number of eligible receivers outside the tackles –Strong side has the eligible receivers –weak side has the least –If no strong side, strength is automatically to the judges side

Definitions Tight End –End man lined up no more than 4 yards from nearest lineman Back in Backfield –Between the tackles at the snap Trips –3 or more receivers outside the tackles

Priority of Keys Back Judge always has the first key –Based on the strength and the number of eligible receivers on one side –Normal assignment is the tight end on the strong side Line Judge and Linesmen have the second key –Normally, one wing will key off the weak side, and the other off of a strong side back When there are trips, the BJ will work the 2 outside receivers, LJ or LM will work the inside. The weak side wing will have receivers on his side Do not key off of the same player as the official ahead of you in the priority

Balanced Formation LJ L BJ First back out of the backfield

Strength to Linesman Side LJ L BJ

Strength to LJ Side LJL BJ

LJL BJ Strength to L Side

LJL BJ Trips

LJ L BJ 2 Receivers Each Side

Motion (Changes Strength) LJ L BJ If no strength change, no change in key

Summary Keys aid in determining initial coverage –Helps officials orient to eligible receivers –Helps avoids confusion and coverage “gaps” Back Judge has first key –Normally tight end on strong side Wings have second key –Wing official on strong side will generally key off of strong side back Balanced formation, strong side is to LJ Strength can change by motion Be prepared to react as the play develops