Here’s a good example of a good “no-call” that looks like interference from the sideline opposite the camera.
The officials working the sidelines, head linesman and line judge, are often the calling officials along with the back judge in pass interference situations. I worked back judge for several years before moving to referee, and the old adage is true about that position. It’s 95% boredom and 5% shear terror! How often have you seen the team that’s losing throw up a desperation pass hoping for a miracle or a penalty? The result often isn’t cut-and-dried, nor as black-and-white as the zebra’s stripes—it’s a judgment call and it usually rests upon the decision of the back judge.
Here’s an example of an obvious foul. Offensive pass interference carries one of the stiffest penalties in football—15 yards from the previous spot and loss of down.
Next time you think you’ve seen pass interference, remember, it’s a judgment call and the back judge should have the best look. Enjoy the game, and see the ball.
Article comments
1 - Doug Hunter
Interesting, I've sorta wanted to be a football official for awhile but I enjoy watching the sport too much. (I did know the answer to your questions) I keep up with a couple of the local high schools as well as college and pro, so I'd have to miss spectating in favor of officiating unless I was doing JV/Jr. High games.
One question I have is this. The rules at the different level vary as you have indicated. Is a horse collar tackle a penalty yet at the high school level? (I saw it get flagged then waved off last Friday) and if so are there any special restrictions. I've heard different things from different people, some saying it wasn't a rule, others limiting it to certain areas of the field.
2 - fcetier
Yes, horse collar tackles are illegal in high school. However, pulling a player down from the back by the jersey is NOT a foul.
3 - cole
the high school video does not look at all like pass interference he just dives infront of him