Referee Pre-Snap Routine By Einar Bolstad NoAFF NFLE LJ #150

1As soon as the ball becomes dead, look around for ”hot spots” and check (listen) for flags. 2Look to the spot to see if it´s a first down. If close, look to the LJ to see if he can help. If still unsure, move to the spot and check if measurement necessary. If first down close to a side line, look to spotting official for a signal if it´s out of bounds or inbounds. 3Signal the next down, check with H. 4Double check U´s placement of the ball.

5When ball spotted, quickly check that other officials are ready (they should be signalling the next down to indicate this). 6Declare the ball ready for play. If it´s noisy and you have visual play- and game clocks, line up so that the clock operators can see you and give a clear RFP/Start the clock hand signal and a sharp whistle. Check that the play clock starts, and also the game clock if applicable. Give the RFP as close to your position for the next play as possible.

7Check for Team A substitutions. If there is a substitution, check when replaced player leaves the huddle. 8Count Team A, preferable while they are still in the huddle. Signal your count, but be prepared for a late signal from the U as he may not be able to count yet. 9When the huddle breaks, scan the players and find the 5 linemen numbered When this is done, check U´s count signal if he hasn´t already given it.

10Check for players not wearing normal numbers for his position. 11Make your final adjustment of your position. Line up on the TE´s outside shoulder (or approx. where he would be if there is none) on the passing hand side of the QB. Line up approx. 5 yards deeper than the deepest back, but not closer than 12 yards to the ball. Make sure you can see the ball, if not adjust your position sideways.

12Check the position of backs in relation to the normal tackle position (for BBW) and try to remember the number of any player close and whether he was ”OK/not OK.” 13Watch for shifts. 14Focus on the ball to make sure the snap is legal, but have a wide angle view. Be especially mindful of QB´s movements (such as head bobs).

15 WORK THE PLAY!