Referee Pre-Snap RoutineBy Einar BolstadNoAFFNFLE LJ #150

• 1 As soon as the ball becomes dead, look around for ”hot spots” and check (listen)

for flags.• 2 Look 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.

• 3 Signal the next down, check with H.• 4 Double check U´s placement of the ball.

• 5 When ball spotted, quickly check that other officials are ready (they should be signalling the next down to indicate this).

• 6 Declare 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.

• 7 Check for Team A substitutions. If there is a substitution, check when replaced player leaves the huddle.

• 8 Count 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.

• 9 When the huddle breaks, scan the players and find the 5 linemen numbered 50-79. When this is done, check U´s count signal if he hasn´t already given it.

• 10 Check for players not wearing normal numbers for his position.

• 11 Make 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.

• 12 Check 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.”

• 13 Watch for shifts.• 14 Focus 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!