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Football Officiating => National Federation Discussion => Topic started by: ncwingman on November 24, 2024, 04:34:06 PM
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Had a bit of a discussion after a game about a foul we didn't call and it divided the crew a bit, so I'd like to hear your opinions:
Situation: 4th and 3 at the 50. After the 3rd down play, the defense quickly sends on their punt return team assuming a punt (a group of 4 on special teams, replacing 4 of the base defense). Realizing the offense didn't send their punter on, the defense coach calls the return team back and puts the base defense back out on the field. This is a violation of 3-7-3, being substituted and returning to the field during the same dead ball period, but the white hat was of a very strong opinion that he would never enforce that foul in that situation.
By rule, this is irrelevant, but the new players weren't lined up in formation, they had maybe made it out to the hash marks before they turned around and went back and not all of the base defense players had made it to the sideline. I was the wing on the offense's sideline and couldn't really tell what was happening across the field at the time.
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I am a white hat and, based on what you described, would not want my crew dropping a flag either. While technically correct, there was no harm or deception. Let the play go and have a talk with the coaching staff.
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Seems like it was a quick swap and no deception intended or gained. Agree no flag.
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Guilty beyond a reasonable doubt is the backbone of our legal system. Rule 3-7-3 is to prevent acts aimed at confusing their opponents, it sounds like they were the ones that were confused.
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That wouldn’t cause a blip on my radar. Play on.
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That wouldn’t cause a blip on my radar. Play on.
:thumbup