I watch a play that I am unsure if we can correct the error.
The play was a free kick and the receiver gave a fair catch signal at about the 30 yard line and no official saw the signal or killed the play.
The R player paused for about 2 seconds then ran, as there was no whistle, and returned the ball to about the 50 where K then was flagged for a personal foul late hit.
The crew got together after the play and the R announced that there was no FC signal and enforced the personal foul from the end of the run.
However, replay clearly shows the player giving the signal.
There is no replay allowed.
My question is if during the crew discussion they decide that the FC signal was given can that be corrected?
Some (sarcastically) refer to NFHS 1-1-6 as "The God Rule", although "A Common sense/Adult Rule" might be far more accurate. A key phrase included in the rule, "in the spirit of good sportsmanship" dictates both common sense and a basic understanding of the intent of the game are the guiding objectives and principles of dealing with situations "not specifically covered in the rules".
When there is agreement/acknowledgment, that an error has been made, that provides either an unearned advantage/disadvantage to either team, common sense and logic suggests correction should be made to eliminate the advantage/disadvantage provided by the error. That responsibility, and determination, is
EXCLUSIVELY granted
(by NFHS: 1-1-6) to the Referee.
In the play suggested, the agreement (right or wrong) that no signal was "seen" logically eliminates any foul by R, who without a FC signal being determined, has the right to advance. There is
NEVER authority/permission to deliver an USC contact, which is a separate, illegal and excessive act, and the appropriate penalty should be maintained, as prescribed.
The intent of NFHS 1-1-6 is to
AVOID endless arguments regarding differing perspectives and/or perceptions (whether subsequently proven accurate or inaccurate), leaving the settlement of such, unresolved, differences to the sole judgment of the Referee, as Officiating crew chief.