After two years of sitting in the stands and evaluating crews for our state office, here are some things I see common at the high school varsity level:
1. Lack of rule knowledge. Every game but one, there was at least one rule misapplied. I wish I could say it was the same rule, but it was not. Everything from fouls during multiple turnovers to marking off full penalties instead of half-the-distance. I advise the white hats to give each crew member to an assignment on one facet of the rules weekly, and be prepared to a short presentation on that rule during pre-game. I also advise them to devote more time in the casebook.
2. Lack of sideline control. Probably common in most states. Everyone seems to think it is ok for coaches to call signals from the field, then step in the box before the snap. And no can count to three.
3. Lack of communication. Common to all, but what really surprised me was the lack of R to U communication. Maybe I talked to much during my days, but I see too many spots being changed after the U sets it down the first time.
4. Letting plays run when not everyone has the same down. I try and tell them, if one of you has a different down, kill it before the snap and get together to talk. Too many times I was the only one that had 2nd down, and after we talked, we all had second down. don;t think because you are the only one with 2 fingers up, you must be wrong.
5. Lack of coverage for medium length passes, 10-20 yards. I know the new mechanics have cut down on the amount of movement in NCAA, but in a five man crew the wings must get downfield at least a little. If the back judge gets taken deep, those over the middle curls 15 yards downfield are tough to cover from the LOS. Also, once the ball is thrown, U has responsibility to help out simply by turning his head. if 65 hasn't held before the pass, it doesn't matter if he is held after the ball is 20 yards downfield. turn your head and help out.
6. Back judges that should be charged admission. I have seen them line up 25-30 yard deep and never move in. I know you have to keep everything in front of you, but seriously? Get involved in the game.
7. Ball rotation. Tough in a high school environment, but there are some simple things that can help. Not the least is keeping the ball boy on your hip. Don't be afraid to tell the coach his ball boy is more interested in the cheerleaders than his job. After PAT's and FG's, have your next ball ready to go.
8. Letting play start before RFP. Really. Both kicks and scrimmage plays. Just really no reason for this to happen except that everybody fell asleep. Watch the body language of the center, QB or kicker. It will give it away before it happens.
9. Thinking six man crew means you can rest. Not on your life.
10. Not getting feedback from Evaluator. If you take the job, even if it's not required, you owe it to your brothers in stripes to communication what you see. Visit with them after the game briefly and follow-up with an email. Mine goes to the white hat and I tell him he can share it or not, it's up to him. usually, mine is pretty detailed.
Hope this helps.
