NAVCOM, over the years, our training on that has been along the lines of observing the skill levels of the teams, as well as the importance of the game with respect to the championship of the organization under which the teams are playing. If the game is competitive, or has significant championship implications, then we work the game with full measure according to the rules and philosophies.
But, if one team clearly demonstrates - and I mean demonstrates, not just by reputation - clear superior skill over the other, then, at some point in the game, we would require a greater level of "obvious" and "advantage" before we would call non-personal fouls. 'Holding' almost becomes impossible. Illegal formations are non-existent. DPI and OPI? Might take a full-blown wrap-up tackle as the ball is approaching, out in the open field. Block in the back? What's that? Personal fouls are always called. But otherwise, we keep the flag in the pocket as much as possible.
The actual score may not always reflect the superiority of one team over another. The superior team may actually be 'holding back,' or playing guys deep in their roster, etc. So, you don't always need to go by the score.
If the game has no bearing on the district/conference championship, then, like in a mis-match, we'll raise the bar for non-personal fouls much higher.
Even a competitive game between equally matched opponents requires a level of "situational officiating." When time gets really short, and one team has a nine point lead, then we might raise the foul bar several notches.
Hope that helps.
