NCAA Rules - learning and not knowing where to start

[BG5]

Gents,

I was hoping for some help on where I should first start on learning the difference between NCAA and NF rules.  I have done some research and in the past many officials have suggested the Redding Study Guide for NCAA rules as a good starting point.  The only issue I have found is I cannot find where I can purchase the 2014 version.  Is this the best spot to start learning NCAA rules or do you suggest anything else.

Additionally, my thought process was to start with the definitions and work from there.  Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

Additionally, I'm a little hung up on a position to start understanding.  In high school I'm a BJ as I move very well and the passing game seems to be a strength for me.  Is there any reason why I would not start learning BJ, SJ, LJ before other positions?

Finally, I am aware of a college study group that meets in my area.  I would love to attend and simply act as sponge and learn as much as I can from simply listening.  Can somebody talk a little about etiquette as far as going to one of these groups.  Do I need to contact a few officials and ask if its ok to attend?  Should I wait to be invited? 

Thanks,

BG

[Kalle]

Absolutely start with the definitions. I think many of the important differences to the NF rules can be found there.

[Morningrise]

Here's a book that many officials have used. http://www.referee.com/training-center/football/rule-differences/

And here's a summary of the major ones, from 2013 (99% the same as 2014): http://khsaa.org/football/Major%20NF-NCAA%20FB%20Rules%20Differences.pdf

Do I need to contact a few officials and ask if its ok to attend?  Should I wait to be invited?

Absolutely invite yourself and if the folks in your area are like the officials I know and work with, they'll be happy to have you.

[bossman72]

What I found helped me:  I would read the book cover to cover and highlight ANYTHING I found that I knew was different from high school.  Therefore those rules would stick out in my head and the rest would be the same as high school.   Really helped emphasize the differences.

I think that's more beneficial than buying a book that tells you the differences.  Doing it yourself makes you learn it and also gets you looking at the high school rule book too and showing you stuff you may have never noticed before in that book!

[Fatman325]

BG5
I can't imagine that the college study group in your area would have any issues with you attending. We have all types of officials in our group from first year high school to D1. Listening to the veterans in your area will not only help you with the rules but the philosophies as well. This might be as helpful as anything.

[shaker55]

I agree, my NCAA study group includes all levels from HS to D1....anyone with an interest is always welcome....what area are you in?

[BG5]

I agree, my NCAA study group includes all levels from HS to D1....anyone with an interest is always welcome....what area are you in?

I live in Portage Michigan and it sounds like a large group of BIG Ten, MAC, and GLIAC officials meet in Lansing on a regular basis.  I am hoping to attend these meetings in the future so thanks for the advice

Additionally, I appreciate all the other suggestions this post has given me and thanks for all that took time to give me advice.

Thanks!!!