[Chico23231]

Originally Posted by coggs

I put about 70% of it on the Head Linesman and 20% on Triplette, and 10% on the umpire and Line judge. I ref semi-pro and we use NFL rules and mechanics.

The head linesman has no business telling the chain crew to move until the ref gives a first down signal, unless it is so obvious that Helen Keller could see it was a first down. After the chains had moved, and the box change to 1, you see Triplette trying to get the HL's attention and yelling 3rd down. When it wasn't fixed, he should have stopped the game to reset the chains and box.

The umpire and line judge seeing it was close, should have yelled to Triplette to come take a closer look and possibly measure. With the game on the line it is customary to give a measurement as a courtesy.

I know 2 nfl officials (not all that well, have met and talked to them at clinics). They have explained how they are graded and the implications. The entire crew will get hammered for this, they won't get fired, but I seriously doubt they come anywhere close to a play-off game.

Great stuff and perspective. Thanks