After a couple of scrimmages, I've realized there are a couple missing mechanics when dealing with the 40/25 play clock and I'm wondering how other people are dealing with it. This was really highlighted when there was no visible play clock on the field.
a) When the 40 second clock is running, do you have a signal from the BJ to the R to note that the ball was not ready prior to 25 second left and the clock should be reset to 25 seconds? Ideally, the BJ should be able to signal to reset 25 with the one hand pump up, but we've been instructed that the R should 1) stop all clocks (S-3), 2) reset to 25 (which is not actually an official signal??), 3) start clocks (S-2 or S-1, depending on game clock status). No other official should be starting the clock, so the BJ can't do this on his own, but the BJ should be involved in communicating the play clock status.
a2) The ReadyRef doesn't give a signal for when you're under 25 seconds. If that's what you use, and there's no visible play clock, how will the BJ know? There are obviously other timers that can give you the signal, but be aware of that.
b) After administrative stoppages, does the BJ have a signal mechanic (other than the reset 25) to note a short play clock? Ideally, he should be signalling snap or wind to the R and in both situations, that's also a 25 second play clock... there would be no need for a signal when 40. You might not need some other signal, but do you use one anyway?
c) Are there any other mechanics you've come up with to address otherwise unforeseen communication issues?