Settle a dispute about 7-man mechanics. In a trips formation on the FJ side of the field, the FJ has the #1 receiver (the one closest to the sideline), the BJ has the #2 receiver and the LJ has the #3 receiver. If the #3 receiver swings out to the sidelines and runs a go route down the sideline and the #1 receiver runs a slant toward the center of the field, how do the keys change for the covering officials?
You may frequently hear the expression "man-zone-ball." Well, that is a very over-used and far too general expression. You have to be able to see your primary key, plus other receivers. As long as your receiver is closely covered, you need to stay with him, regardless of where he goes, until the ball is in the air, and even then, obviously, if the ball is going to him. If your key isn't tightly covered, you should be able to check other receivers, perhaps even come off of your guy to pick up the guy that is the "threat" to be fouled. So, in the case of this crossing action, you have to identify the 'threatened' receiver, and, if he has moved from outside your general area, into your general area of the field, you need to recognize that, and focus your attention on the receiver that is the "threat." If your primary remains closely covered, then you MUST stay with him. But, if your guy is not closely covered, then come off of him and look for the "threat." Once the ball is in the air, then all eyes of the deep guys, in particular, must go to the intended receiver.
