Primary
responsibility to rule on players' equipment, as well
as their conduct and actions on scrimmage line. Lines
up approximately four to five yards downfield, varying
position from in front of weakside tackle to
strongside guard. Looks for possible false start by
offensive linemen. Observes legality of contact by
both offensive linemen while blocking and by defensive
players while they attempt to ward off blockers. Is
prepared to call rule infractions if they occur on
offense or defense. Moves forward to line of scrimmage
when pass play develops in order to insure that
interior linemen do not move illegally downfield. If
offensive linemen indicate screen pass is to be
attempted, Umpire shifts his attention toward screen
side, picks up potential receiver in order to insure
that he will legally be permitted to run his pattern
and continues to rule on action of blockers. Umpire is
to assist in ruling on incomplete or trapped passes
when ball is thrown overhead or short. On punt plays,
Umpire positions himself opposite Referee in offensive
backfield-5 yards from kicker and parallel.
