2021 Mechanic Changes (Umpire in the offensive backfield)
Umpire Position:
In the offensive backfield (opposite side of the referee, 12-15 yards behind the offensive line. Key on the center and guards. Continue to count offense with the Referee.
Ball spotting:
Umpire will spot the ball on all plays unless it is dead outside the numbers on your side of the field (retrieve and relay to the Referee). Umpire should spot the ball on all hurry up plays.
The Referee should spot the ball when it is dead outside the numbers on the umpire’s side of the field.
The Back Judge can spot the ball on any long runs or completions.
Umpire and/or Referee should look to the sideline for a new ball on any long incomplete passes.
After spotting the ball, the Umpire moves to a position behind but to the side of the center to prevent the snap if necessary (directed by the referee during substitution).
Umpire Coverage:
Continue to help with catch/no catch on any short or screen passes.
Responsible for protecting the Center on scrimmage kicks.
The Referee continues to have primary coverage on the Quarterback no matter which side he rolls to.
Responsible for Team A’s Goal Line after change of possession.
When the ball in inside Team B’s 10yd line, be prepared to help the line of scrimmage officials with knowing if a pass is backward or forward, if the passer was beyond the line of scrimmage, and if the touched pass is beyond or behind the line of scrimmage.
Backside Officiate / Clean up the play on passes or runs that go away from you.
Other officials:
HL/LJ will be responsible for deciding forward/backward on passes. Best look is when the pass goes away from you.
The Line Judge will be primarily responsible for the passer being behind/beyond the Line of Scrimmage. The HL should help when there is strength to the LJ side of the field or the play goes away from you.
The HL/LJ will be responsible for all ineligible players downfield (best look is when the play goes away from you).
2021 Mechanic Changes.Umpire <— (Click Here for Handout)