For whatever reason, many officials do very little talking on the field, either to players and coaches or to crewmates. They’re missing golden opportunities to upgrade their performances.
Wing officials, particularly the line judge, can help thee referee by letting him know verbally where a play has ended in relation to the line-to-gain. Simple phrases such as, ‘they’re short,’ take a look; that’s pretty close,’ and ‘that’s a first down,’ help improve the flow of the game by accelerating the ball-spotting and chain-setting procedures.
Confirm the down with your crewmates after every play. Remind each other of special rules situations plays (on fourth down punts) that provide the snapper, kicker and holder with protections. If the clock was stopped on the previous play, let the referee know before the ready-for-play signal whether the clock starts on the ready or at the snap.
Communicate with coaches when necessary. After a timeout, the flank officials should let the respective coaches know how many timeouts each team has left. Wing officials should also pass along the number of the player called for the foul. If the line judge calls a foul on the team whose sideline is on the head linesman’s side, the line judge should attempt to get the number and let the coach know.
Too many officials think the only times captains are necessary are at the coin toss. Make sure you know who the captains are and try to get their names. When talking to them, refer to them as ‘Captain’. Good captains help the officials by taking care of teammate’s those actions or comments are bordering on fouls. ‘Captain Jones’, I need your help with your left guard. If I have to, I’ll flag him for talking to the opponent (other team), but I’d rather you take care of it before I have to. There are literally dozens of other ways in which communication can make a tough job easier. Do not be afraid to speak up when necessary.
