Football Instruction/Questions Answered by Expert Victor Winnek
| Subject | Date Asked |
| Tackle Box Free Blocking zone | 1/25/2012 |
| Q: In high school football, against a double tight, double wing, set-up, with heel to heel splits, can ... A: Doug Thank you for your question. I don't want to be the bearer of bad news but, please know under ... | |
| NFL Touchdown Rules | 1/23/2012 |
| Q: I am a Patriot fan (not that it should matter). I could not believe that the Raven player's catch ... A: Jennifer The reason why it was not a TD is because the receiver has to complete the process of the ... | |
| NFL goal line spot | 1/22/2012 |
| Q: When the Patriots were inches short on a play that had been called a touchdown the referees spotted ... A: John you assume correctly. They spot the ball where it is down per the replay. Many times when the ... | |
| stretching a ball out for first down | 1/8/2012 |
| Q: Let's say a ball carrier on a play jumps over the offensive line, stretches the ball over the first ... A: Dan Thank you for your question about Forward Progress. This is a rather common question and I ... | |
| Should I play football the end of my junior and senior year of hs? | 12/17/2011 |
| Q: my mother has never let me play football but finnaly theres somebody on my side ( my grandpa ). I ... A: Ryan Only you can aswer whether you should play football. If you have the desire to play then you ... | |
| NCAA Football rules | 12/8/2011 |
| Q: player from team A running towards team B goal for apparent touchdown, but tosses the ball toward ... A: Thomas Thanks for you question. There are several different situations that arise from this ... | |
| Encroachment | 12/7/2011 |
| Q: Is there any discussion about re-visiting the offsides/encroachment rule change that allows the ... A: David I am not aware of any discussion about re-visiting the fouls of offside or encroachment. The ... | |
| Roughing the Kicker (Punter) | 11/27/2011 |
| Q: I just read your response to a question about what is and is not roughing the punter. You stated ... A: Donald, Thanks for the question. This applies to NCAA rules and not to the Federation rules. One ... | |
| Early Years football calls | 11/26/2011 |
| Q: Years ago when a football team had a penalty the referee would yell out the penalty and just point ... A: Frank, The announcement of the penalty by the Referee has evolved over the decades, primarily to ... | |
| Chop Block | 11/24/2011 |
| Q: I just wanted to quickly ask an officials opinion on this call. My college team runs the flexbone ... A: Ethan I have reviewed the play involving #91 Defense and the two OL[Center #77 & backside Guard #71) ... | |
| Cut Block | 11/22/2011 |
| Q: Is there any chance that Cut blocks like the ones allowed in College Football will ever be allowed ... A: Ethan Thank you for your question about blocking below the waist. To simply answer your question, no ... | |
| OT field goal dead ball penalty/excessive celebration | 11/16/2011 |
| Q: This is a lengthy question. High School round 2 playoff game. game tied at end of game. OT ... A: Amanda Thank you for your question. First an foremonst as an official and instructor of high school ... | |
| 12 men in the huddle | 11/15/2011 |
| Q: Is the purpose of the 12 men in the huddle rule so that he defense can anticipate the formation of ... A: Benjamin In a sense, yes. But first, the rule does not prohibit 12 players in the huddle, it ... | |
| 12 men in the huddle | 11/7/2011 |
| Q: Does calling a time out with 12 men in the huddle negate the penalty? A: Melanie. This is an excellent question. Briefly the answer is Yes. First, it is not a foul for ... | |
| fumble or down | 11/6/2011 |
| Q: In yesterday's Michigan vs. IOWA game, the Michigan quarterback was rushed. In his attempt to ... A: Graydon Thanks for the question, I have had several questions about this game. Please know I did ... | |
| High school football rules | 11/5/2011 |
| Q: nfhs: 1st quarter ends. Ball is moved to other end of field, clock is re-set to 12 min. Ref blows ... A: The Referee should be blowing his whistle to get the teams on the filed and ready for play. When ... | |
| Rugby style punt | 11/4/2011 |
| Q: In high school football when does the punter lose his protection and become a runner while doing a ... A: Tom As you describe your follow up play situation, it does not sound like a personal foul and to not ... | |
| Spotting the ball. | 11/1/2011 |
| Q: When a runner advances the ball and his knee is down by contact, is the ball spotted where the knee ... A: Floyd, Thank you for your question. In your question the ball is spotted where the ball is when the ... | |
| College football referee mechanics | 10/31/2011 |
| Q: Which official on the college football field is responsible for determining if the QB has passed the ... A: Doug In 7 man mechanics, the Line Judge - LJ will be on the line of scrimmage and he will look down ... | |
| punting | 10/25/2011 |
| Q: I was at a college football game when the punter dropped the ball and then kicked it from the ... A: Marie Thank you for your question, this touches on a couple kicking issues that are rarely seen. ... | |
| Intentional grounding rule | 10/23/2011 |
| Q: If a college quarterback takes the snap and drops back and runs outside the tackles and then runs ... A: Les In your play, it is not intentional grounding because th epasser is deemed to have been outside ... | |
| HS KICK OFF RULES | 10/18/2011 |
| Q: I'm a mom with a question regarding kick off and the kicking team. Once the ball is kicked over 10 ... A: Patty Thanks for the question. Yes, the ball must travel 10 yards before the Kicking team can gain ... | |
| Rugby style punt | 10/16/2011 |
| Q: In high school football when does the punter lose his protection and become a runner while doing a ... A: When the kicker is in the act of kicking he is a kicker; however, when he is running with the ball ... | |
| NFHS rule on kickoff | 10/12/2011 |
| Q: Opening kickoff on the 40 yard line, ball goes 20 yards in the air, touches the ground on the ... A: Ernesto, The offense can put 10 men on the line of scrimmage [LOS] if they want. The rule ... | |
| NFHS rule on kickoff | 10/11/2011 |
| Q: Opening kickoff on the 40 yard line, ball goes 20 yards in the air, touches the ground on the ... A: Ernesto On this question, the coach was correct. But it is a great learning opportunity. The ... | |
| High School Football Rule Question | 10/6/2011 |
| Q: I am a high school football official. My question pertains to a blocked scrimmage kick and touching ... A: Paul I still am not 'completely" convinced of all your reasoning that K ends up with the ball, but ... | |
| High School Football Rule Question | 10/5/2011 |
| Q: I am a high school football official. My question pertains to a blocked scrimmage kick and touching ... A: Paul Go back to 6-2-4 K may catch or recover the scrimmage kick [ball] : 1) while it is beyond the ... | |
| High School Football Rule Question | 10/4/2011 |
| Q: I am a high school football official. My question pertains to a blocked scrimmage kick and touching ... A: Paul this is a great Rules question for discussion. As you know Rules 6-2-4 and 6-2-5 govern this ... | |
| Taunting | 10/2/2011 |
| Q: What is the ruling on a player taunting another player... Scenario: Offensive player getting ready ... A: Tom Under NCAA rules as of this year [2011] taunting or unsportsmanlike conduct fouls (UNS) are ... | |
| tapped pass by offense | 10/1/2011 |
| Q: Is there a rule that during a pass the offensive player cannot tap a pass to his team mate. If a ... A: Otis Thanks for your question. The Rule section that governs touching a forward and eligibility to ... | |
| touch back | 9/26/2011 |
| Q: During a punt a player from the punting team bats the football away from the goal line before it ... A: Jeff Good question, this is one we use for discussion and instruction of officials, Let me explain ... | |
| glove colors | 9/25/2011 |
| Q: i heard that startin the 2011 season college football players will be able any color gloves for the ... A: Per Rule 1, in 2011 ONLY NCAA Division 1 players can wear gloves of any color. All others must wear ... | |
| Double Fouls | 9/19/2011 |
| Q: Last night I had my team coming over an amazing effort to a 4th Quarter Comeback. There was only 2s ... A: Elimar At the outset, I have to agree with you based on , unless there is other information I do not ... | |
| Clock start | 9/11/2011 |
| Q: after a running play, the next play, the offense commits a procedure penalty. Does the clock start ... A: Tom Thanks for the question. I assume you are asking about a False Start foul. The answer is it ... | |
| tinted prescription eyewear | 9/7/2011 |
| Q: I saw your previous responses to this question. My year old in Pop Warner in Orange County CA was ... A: Jessica Please know that Pop Warner Football in Southern California is played under Federation ... | |
| Screen Plays | 8/29/2011 |
| Q: If a pass is thrown behind the line of scrimmage can lineman be beyond the line of scrimmage before ... A: Adam The High School rule [NFHS] is different from the college rule [NCAA]. However in your ... | |
| onside kick | 8/25/2011 |
| Q: My son is playing high school football. On an on side kick, if the kick is obviously not going to go ... A: Scott Thank you for the question (I answered this two days ago on my Blackberry but it seems not to ... | |
| Possible need for expert witness and a question | 8/16/2011 |
| Q: A 12 year old playing in his first tackle football game suffered a concussion which has had long ... A: Tom As a follow up to my last reply, here is a website that discusses the proper fitting of ... | |
| quarterback accuracy | 8/5/2011 |
| Q: How can I increase my accuracy? I got a lot of power on the ball just not the accuracy.How can I ... A: John The Key to improving your accuracy is practice and repetition. Work on on your fundamentals ... | |
| football player safety | 8/2/2011 |
| Q: I am a new assistance coach for a Pop Warner Tiny Mite team (ages 5-6). I have made it a personal ... A: Chris Thank you for your question. I am very happy to see you are training yourself and are ... | |
| Coaching | 7/26/2011 |
| Q: If I am attempting to make the move from high school to college coaching do you think that taking a ... A: David In my opinion, the key is exposure and experience. Your collegiate network will be greater by ... | |
| Playing Cornerback, making interceptions | 7/15/2011 |
| Q: Hey thanks for taking time to answer my question. my question is I play cornerback in highschool ... A: Warren First and foremost, congratulations on starting and playing for the Varsity team. Good Job! ... | |
| football, shoulder brace | 7/11/2011 |
| Q: Hey thanks for taking time to answer my question Iam a football player and I play cornerback. I had ... A: William I an mot aware on any braces that don't restrict range of motion. Most all braces I am ... | |
| Dt | 5/21/2011 |
| Q: I'm trying out for DT and my friend told me that if i grabbed an offensive lineman by the ankle and ... A: Dylan What you are describing is not legal under any rule. At the very least you describe a ... | |
| playing football | 4/22/2011 |
| Q: how would i go about being recrutied. i play dt but i can play linebacker to, i can catch go up for ... A: Lawrence You have good size but there are other factor that need to be considered for being ... | |
| Nubby football cleats | 2/9/2011 |
| Q: Are nubby football "shoes" illegal? We just bought them from Nike and I was wondering if there was a ... A: Hayden I am not familiar with the exact shoe you are asking about but based on your description the ... | |
| defensive cutting | 1/9/2011 |
| Q: I have seen more and more teams teach their defensive ends to cut the fullback or pulling lineman on ... A: Hansen Under NCAA rule 9-1-2-e blocking below the waist is permitted provided it is is a legal ... | |
| NCAA football rules | 1/7/2011 |
| Q: What rule would make the safety called in the 2011 Sugar Bowl the correct call? I'm stumped. A: Carl Thank you for your question. I assume you are asking about the 4thQtr. play where Ohio State's ... | |
| question | 1/7/2011 |
| Q: what is the length and hight of a goal A: Niaz At least 30 feet high by 18"6" wide and the cross bar is 10 feet above the ground. Each goal ... | |
| Blocked punt | 1/5/2011 |
| Q: College football...it is 4th down and the punt in blocked, if the "non-kicking team" picks up the ... A: Raymond, Yes the ball may be recovered by either team and advanced. The defensive team /recieving ... | |
| Formations for blocking field goals | 1/2/2011 |
| Q: I'm not familiar with the rules regarding positional requirements for the defense during field goal ... A: Jason Rule 9 specifically prohibits this type of act for blocking kick. The action you describe was ... | |
| too many men on the field NCAA | 12/31/2010 |
| Q: with 1 second left the team had 14 men on the field in a bowl game. QB spikes it but they get a flag ... A: FOLLOW UP JULY 13, 2011 - SCOTT I AM FOLLOWING UP TO THE QUESTION YOU ASKED AT THE END OF LAST ... | |
| legasl formation???? | 12/27/2010 |
| Q: Vic, here is the formation that i want to run and would like to know whether or not it is legal? ... A: Rob Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to you. I have reviewed the formation and it is legal - you ... | |
| punting | 12/23/2010 |
| Q: What is the rule for high school football on roughing the punter. if a player hits the kicker before ... A: Jacob The kicker is given special protection [as is the holder and long snapper] against being ... | |
| spiking ball to stop the clock. | 12/5/2010 |
| Q: I would like to know why spiking the ball to stop the clock is not intentional grounding. The ... A: Steven Thanks for your question, a passer who immediately spikes the ball after the snap to stop the ... | |
| NCAA football rules (guywire interference) | 12/1/2010 |
| Q: During the LSU-Arkansas football game the ball was punted, hit the television cable (the tv cables ... A: Charles, This is a very good question and you have me thinking! Rule 4-1-3-k comes to mind which ... | |
| punt block | 11/29/2010 |
| Q: In college football, if you are on punt block, you get a great break on the snap, slip between the ... A: John Based on your play situation you are allowed to tackle the punter. If the punter is not in the ... | |
| football | 11/28/2010 |
| Q: When did roughing the kicker become a rule. better yet when did the nfl and ncaa start enforcing it ... A: Tim My expertise is NCAA rules, not NFL rules per my profile. There have been rules protecting the ... | |
| illegal formation ??????? | 11/23/2010 |
| Q: here is the formation R G C G T SE R WB WB ... A: ROBERT In your follow up question about R2 in the formation below, R2 is an eligible receiver. R1 ... | |
| illegal formation ??????? | 11/21/2010 |
| Q: here is the formation R G C G T SE R WB WB ... A: THIS FORMATION IS LEGAL. THE FACT YOUR SE WILL HAVE THE PROPER NUMBER MAKES THE FORMATION LEGAL BUT ... | |
| illegal formation ??????? | 11/20/2010 |
| Q: here is the formation R G C G T SE R WB WB ... A: Rob Are you aware there are only 10 players in this formation? It is a legal formation to the ... | |
| PAT | 11/18/2010 |
| Q: It was my understanding that the try for PAT is considered a deadball play. Therefore, when the try ... A: Lew, Thank you for your question. The answer depends what rule book is being used. Under NCAA Rules ... | |
| Free Zone Blocking | 11/17/2010 |
| Q: I am unclear if a blitzing linebacker who is within the 3 yard yard box but not on the LOS can be ... A: Ted Thank you for your question. In reviewing it I suspect your Pop Warner League may be using a ... | |
| Blocking/Holding | 11/14/2010 |
| Q: 1. Can an offensive lineman put his hands on the sides of a defender and grasp the jersey? 2. Can ... A: Steve, I had posted a very detailed answer but it seems not to have posted, so I will try to ... | |
| Defensive Cut Block | 11/9/2010 |
| Q: Is it legal for a safety/corner to take on a blocker, (pulling lineman or fullback) during a run ... A: Joey This is a loaded question, there is a specific way this low block is can be executed and legal ... | |
| safety | 11/8/2010 |
| Q: Team A has the ball on their own one yard line. The quarterback hands the ball off to the fullback ... A: Kevin Great question. This question can be answered technically by rule and by officiating ... | |
| safety | 11/8/2010 |
| Q: Team a has the ball on their own one yard line. The quarterback hands the ball off to the fullback ... A: Kevin This question can be answered technically by rule and by officiating philosophy. As you ... | |
| football penalty and enforcement | 11/7/2010 |
| Q: Mr. Winnek: I have an unusual play. Kicking team punts. The ball rolls dead, untouched. No whistle, ... A: Leon Very good question. Before I answer it there are a few thing I need to know: is this game ... | |
| Football rules | 11/6/2010 |
| Q: On a kick-off the ball hits the leg of a player on the receiving team on the ten yard line. The ... A: Paul To analyze this, you have to understand that there was no possession by the Receiving team. ... | |
| touchback | 11/2/2010 |
| Q: Team A kicks-off the ball to team B to begin the second half of a game. No player from team B ... A: Kevin If I understand your question Team A free Kick goes beyonf their restraining line/NZ and ... | |
| deadball -NFL | 10/31/2010 |
| Q: What is given to the team if the ball goes out of play? A: Jordan Sorry I don't understand your question. If the ball goes out of play (i.e. out of ... | |
| 7 men line of scrimmage | 10/27/2010 |
| Q: if i want to line up in a i formation with wr on left on the line plus te on left,with 5 lineman, ... A: The requirements are you must have 5 linemen numbered 50-79 on the line of scrimmage and not more ... | |
| Punt recovery | 10/25/2010 |
| Q: 4th and 20 and team A are punting from their 10 yard line. The punt is high and short and a team B ... A: Paraic In your play, it should be Team A's ball first and 10 at the spot of recovery the 20 ... | |
| removal of a player's helmet | 10/24/2010 |
| Q: Only a couple of seconds are left in the game. Team A is attempting to kick a field goal to win the ... A: Nancy Thank you for your question. This is a good question because to be officiated properly common ... | |
| kicking tees | 10/8/2010 |
| Q: (for a science project) Does position of a football on a kicking tee affect the distance it ... A: Debbie This is a physics question and not a football question. If I recall correctly the physics ... | |
| Is this a touchdown | 10/4/2010 |
| Q: Let say the right pylon in the end zone, and the ball is carried with either hand and crosses on the ... A: SCOTT I NOTICED THIS QUESTION IN THE QUESTION POOL SO THE EXPERT YOU ORIGINALLY ASK PLACED IT ... | |
| youth football | 10/4/2010 |
| Q: I am the coach of a 11-12 youth football team. Last week the team we played did not use the kicking ... A: The Kick off/free kick that is put into play by a place kick may be kicked from the ground. The ... | |
| illegal procedure by the center | 10/2/2010 |
| Q: During OT of the the 2010 Auburn vs Clemson football game, the Clemson center was called for illegal ... A: Nell Thank you for your question. First please know that there is no foul for illegal procedure in ... | |
| illiegal formation | 10/1/2010 |
| Q: I have gotten called for illiegal formation because i was on the "wrong side of the ball." I don't ... A: Jon Thanks for the additional information. Based on your information I don't understand why you ... | |
| College football rules pertaining to punting | 9/28/2010 |
| Q: When kicking off, is it legal to kick by using a punt, rather than the standard method of ... A: Richard, Thanks for your question about free kicks. Yes, it is legal to "kick off" by punting the ... | |
| Running into the kicker | 9/25/2010 |
| Q: It is 4th down.The quarterback is under center, takes the snap and turns and tosses the ball to a ... A: Jerry This is nothing. The running back is a ball carrier and not a kicker and thus is treated as a ... | |
| illiegal formation | 9/24/2010 |
| Q: I have gotten called for illiegal formation because i was on the "wrong side of the ball." I don't ... A: Jon I need some more information I too am having difficulty understanding the reason you were called ... | |
| roughing the kicker | 9/23/2010 |
| Q: if a punter is using the rugby style to punt does he lose the punter protection A: Dee Thanks for your question. The brief answer is Punter who run outside of the tackle box lose ... | |
| legal backwards pass | 9/21/2010 |
| Q: Player A pitches the ball to player B that is trailing, but both players are in motion towards the ... A: Jerry, The link I looked at showed the play one time ... | |
| legal backwards pass | 9/20/2010 |
| Q: Player A pitches the ball to player B that is trailing, but both players are in motion towards the ... A: Jerry Thank you for your question. It is a little confusing as I am not sure I know exactly what ... | |
| FG attempts hs | 9/19/2010 |
| Q: formation on 4th down regardless of field position: A) is this legal; B) if the what appears to be ... A: Patrick It depends on what rules your state high school is using - NCAA or Federation rules. Those ... | |
| tochdown or not | 9/18/2010 |
| Q: if a recvier cathes a ball in the front of the end zone but the ball has not crossed the plain is ... A: James If the catch is made infront of the endzone and the plane of the goalline is not broken by the ... | |
| viso | 9/17/2010 |
| Q: can i get a permitt to wear a visor black A: No, black eye shields or visors are not permitted by rule. The exact rule addressing visors under ... | |
| dead ball | 9/15/2010 |
| Q: If a ball carrier is in possession of the football and his knee or elbow does not touch the ground ... A: Scott This is a good question. The simple answer is the ball carrier/runner is allowed to continue ... | |
| THE PYLON | 9/14/2010 |
| Q: IS THE ENTIRE PYLON CONSIDERED TO BE PART OF THE GOAL LINE ? A: The following is an officiating philosophy - Exploding Pylon If a runner approaches the pylon ... | |
| can the center just hike the ball?? | 9/14/2010 |
| Q: My friends and I are having a debate with no definite answer to the question; Can the center just ... A: Kevin The Center/snapper is not required by rule to wait for the QB to call the signal, he may snap ... | |
| Holding by the return team | 9/12/2010 |
| Q: If the receiving team is called for holding before the ball is caught by the return man is the ... A: Gary I have not seen the play. The enforcement spot for Holding by the return team on a kick play ... | |
| enforecent and spot for illegal procedure | 9/11/2010 |
| Q: Recently I observed this situation at local high school game: 4th and 2, the offensive team lines up ... A: Ben You are correct that illegal procedure is a dead ball foul and if this was the foul then the ... | |
| Eligilbilty | 9/8/2010 |
| Q: In regards to answer earlier regarding my brothers ineligibility status with NCAA , the school ... A: Deidre As you know no longer answer questions regarding eligibility or compliance matters and those ... | |
| Tinted Goggles in football | 9/7/2010 |
| Q: I understand tinted Visors are illegal in High School Football. My son has an eye condition which ... A: Tammy Yes he may wear sport goggles with tinted lens. Tinted eyeshields on the facemask is not ... | |
| playing football | 9/3/2010 |
| Q: The last time I asked a question you gave me a pretty good lead you told me to try to get into the ... A: You will need to register http://www.europlayers.com/Register.aspx Here are some website for ... | |
| Visors | 9/2/2010 |
| Q: when i am on the field the lights give me a major headache and i was wondering if i get a ... A: Blake No, a prescription, doctor's note or medical report will not make it legal to play with a ... | |
| Cut Blocks | 8/29/2010 |
| Q: I play left guard for a high school in Florida. We use NFHS football rules. If I am passblocking, ... A: Matt Excellent question. Generally you may not block below the waist per Rule 9-3-1 and 2-17. ... | |
| Receiver Gloves - 2010 | 8/26/2010 |
| Q: The illegal player equipment rule as it pertains to receiver gloves has been updated for 2010. What ... A: Jeff Under NCAA rules, If worn, gloves or hand pads must be gray in color on the back, including ... | |
| Placekick holder's knee | 8/20/2010 |
| Q: I'm aware of the knee down rule exception for the holder on place kicks, however, I'm not sure at ... A: DID NOT REALIZE MY RESPONSE WAS NOT CLEAR, SORRY ABOUT THAT. LET ME TRY TO CLEAR IT UP... YOUR ... | |
| rules | 8/18/2010 |
| Q: how many players do you need to have to start a game? A: Richard, Thank you for your question. Rule 1 addresses the number of players permitted to play. ... | |
| Previous question re: Cowboys book | 8/16/2010 |
| Q: Victor: Back on May 5, 2007 you answered a question about a Cowboys book that "Helen's grandmother" ... A: Fred, Thank you for your assistance in helping to provide Helen with an answer to a question she ... | |
| FOOTBALL TRYOUT | 6/30/2010 |
| Q: DEAR VICTOR MY NAME IS JOHN I AM 18 I WANT TO TRYOUT FOR A DIVISION 1 SCHOOL I AM 5'9 281 I WANT TO ... A: Here are some clips to help you throw the football better. ... | |
| Football Golves | 6/27/2010 |
| Q: I'm a defensive linemen and have been pondering gloves and I am wondering if the UA Combat II HF is ... A: Travis I am not familiar with that that Brand or model of glove, to know if the are legal, they must ... | |
| recruiting | 6/21/2010 |
| Q: At my school the incoming freshman football players and returning players is starting to drop. There ... A: Inspire them with a sense of school spirt, team unity and a since of pride being members of the ... | |
| QB mechanics | 6/14/2010 |
| Q: At my school, we have an after school club consisting of about 30 people, and we sometimes play ... A: Jimmy Here are some clips to help you throw the football better. ... | |
| I'm not sure if football is something i should do | 6/9/2010 |
| Q: Hey! My name's Nate and i live in Australia.I'm almost 14 and only 5'0 83 pounds. I play Gridiron in ... A: Nate Wonderful and I think you will be surprised that you will be just as tough as American players. ... | |
| Tight end help | 6/6/2010 |
| Q: What are the main muscles used for the tight end position? And how do I train? What are some body ... A: Justin All Muscle groups are used for tight end position but don't forget you strengthen your core! ... | |
| Size of Player in High School | 5/23/2010 |
| Q: What is the average size of a high school free safety or cornerback? And is 6'1" 160-170lbs to ... A: John There is no statistic kept for the aveage size of high school players; and frankly there is on ... | |
| Outside Linebacker | 5/20/2010 |
| Q: I'm 6'2 and i weigh 200 pounds and starting my senior year in just a few weeks, i Bench press 270 ... A: Christopher There are keys for watching the recievers, but as a LB that is not your primary read or ... | |
| Outside Linebacker | 5/19/2010 |
| Q: I'm 6'2 and i weigh 200 pounds and starting my senior year in just a few weeks, i Bench press 270 ... A: It sounds as though you need to spend time learning to read your keys, read the QB and the pass ... | |
| football coaching | 5/18/2010 |
| Q: i was wondering if you had any advice for starting my coaching career. i played all four years of ... A: Moses First and foremost, thank for serving this country! Upon discharge, think about going to ... | |
| start of play | 5/17/2010 |
| Q: Is an official required to spot the ball and signal play can begin in a timely way? The reason I'm ... A: Robert Thank you for this question. This is one of the best questions I have had asked in a long ... | |
| About My Size And Positon | 5/15/2010 |
| Q: What Position Could I Play For My Size? I Am, 5 Feet 6 Inches, Weighing 130 Lbs and i'm White. Right ... A: Keep doing what you are doing. I assume you are in high school, if so just keep working out with a ... | |
| Coverages | 5/8/2010 |
| Q: Hey Coach!, Can you explain exactly What cover 4 thru 7 are??? A: Johnny Thank you for your question below ar ethe coverages, please know there is no common term ... | |
| getting it back | 5/7/2010 |
| Q: Good afternoon sir. I play free safety for my college team after a 7 year period of not playing and ... A: Brad, A good strength tranning course is important - 4 days/week in the weightroom. Next running ... | |
| Clear Visor | 1/18/2010 |
| Q: Hey my name is Steven and i want to get a clear football visor to wear for football next year....I ... A: Under high school and college rules an eye shield or visor is permitted without the need of a ... | |
| Spotting the ball when a runner goes out of bounds | 1/11/2010 |
| Q: I know that a the ball is spotted at the place where it is when the runner is ruled down. My ... A: Mario Your question has to do woth forward progress. The question about the goalline extended is ... | |
| fumble into and out of the endzone | 1/5/2010 |
| Q: if a player fumbles into the end zone and the defense touches the ball before it go's out of the end ... A: Richard The simple answer to your question, it is a touch back and the ball belongs to Team B at ... | |
| Learning plays | 1/2/2010 |
| Q: Coach I played football in.8 grade but did not play in 9 grade because of a family death. I am still ... A: Joe you have to study your play book. To better remember plays study them 30 min a night before ... | |
| football tryouts | 12/19/2009 |
| Q: am in a private school that does not offer football but would like to know the steps i should take ... A: The steps you need to follow depends on each college football program. There are some schools'; ... | |
| Mini Clinics | 12/11/2009 |
| Q: My father in law is climbing the ladder effectively in the world of football officials. He has done ... A: David As an expert I do not endorse or get paid by any of the football clinics, However they are ... | |
| Position Help | 12/8/2009 |
| Q: Im a freshmen trying out for JV next year. The school team is not that good. I have never played in ... A: Jay You should work on a total body workout with Core training as well, plus cardio light weight ... | |
| player down | 12/6/2009 |
| Q: if a players arm hits the ground before a fumble is he considered down? Is it any part of the body? A: Bill For a runner to be down, it is any part of his body other than his foot or hand. In your ... | |
| home team announcer | 12/1/2009 |
| Q: We were at a playoff against a school in a very rich area of the county, we are a lower income ... A: Rachel, No this is not normal and it offends the integrity of the game and violates the basic ... | |
| do you think i can play safety? | 11/18/2009 |
| Q: I wanted to know if I should try safety. I played Dline three years: first year freshmen team, then ... A: CJ You have good size and height and you know the defensive side of the ball. I say give it a try, ... | |
| football coach | 11/16/2009 |
| Q: I played football for nine years of my life and ended at high school. I love the game haven't missed ... A: Matt Thank you for your question, a college education is one of the qualifications schools look ... | |
| runningback/linebacker | 11/15/2009 |
| Q: You recently posted a question to Victor Winnek in category Football Instruction: Hey my name is ... A: Darriel If you are part of a team already I suggest you follow your coach's strength plan. You need ... | |
| roughing the punter | 11/7/2009 |
| Q: The punter recieves the snap cleanly and then drops the ball. He regains the ball and kicks it. If ... A: Brent As you state it, it is a foul - either running into the kicker or roughing. But there are ... | |
| Onside Kick | 11/3/2009 |
| Q: I was just watching the MNF game and they have done a onside kick and I though what if the receiving ... A: Brian The recieving team can not kick the ball, that would be an illegal kick [Return kick] and the ... | |
| touchdown or not | 11/2/2009 |
| Q: if a team is driving to the endzone and lets say they are on the 10 yard line,if the reciever haqs ... A: Frank The ball must cross the plane of the goalline in player possession for there to be a touch ... | |
| holder for field goal kicker | 10/18/2009 |
| Q: Holder for the field goal kicker receives the snap, and while knee is still on ground, flips the ... A: There is an exception under the NCAA rules concerning a downed player (dead ball). The holder may ... | |
| Place holder after a blocked kick | 10/14/2009 |
| Q: The rule states that the place holder is not down in NCAA while his knee is down and holding the ... A: The ball would be dead in the grounded player's possession. No he can not get up an run at that ... | |
| Offensive Line | 10/11/2009 |
| Q: I was watching the LSU-Florida game on Saturday night and came up with this question. I see LSU's ... A: Jeff This is a common question and it is somewhat of a common occurrence. For a false start foul to ... | |
| Onside Kicks | 10/10/2009 |
| Q: Team K kicks. The ball travels in the air 12 yards. While the ball is still in the air, and having ... A: Jeff Thank you for your question. Briefly the answer to your question is: It is A's ball or the ... | |
| penalty call | 10/6/2009 |
| Q: I was at Notre Dame game Saturday. what is a roughing the snapper penalty all about A: Sylvester Thank you for your question. A long snapper may not be contacted until one second has ... | |
| NFHS Defensive movement prior to the snap | 10/1/2009 |
| Q: This is regarding NFHS varsity level football. Recently there have been actions by a defense that ... A: Elmer, Outstanding question and your research is right on. Rule 7-1-7b only applies to the ... | |
| visors/goggles | 9/22/2009 |
| Q: Why is it that a player cannot wear a tinted visor (I understand that a trainer needs to see the ... A: Todd The reason has to do with head and spinal injury precautions. Goggles or glasses can be ... | |
| i need help | 9/20/2009 |
| Q: im Ty I can throw up to like 50 to 60 yards did i tell u im 11 years old but i wanana throw to my ... A: TY Your distance is great, but if you want to throw to your players and complete passes for yardage ... | |
| on sides kick ruling | 9/18/2009 |
| Q: Does an on sides kickoff have to touch the ground before it is considered live? A: Rick The kick is live once kicked. The Receiving team may recover it before it touches the ground. ... | |
| Coaching | 9/16/2009 |
| Q: My goal is to find work non paying or paying as an assistant coach and work my way up until I ... A: Steven Thank you for your question, to be honest a college education is one of the qualifications ... | |
| Reading Defenses | 9/8/2009 |
| Q: Victor, I know this is a complex question, however I was wondering if you could explain to me how a ... A: David This is a complex question that cannot be answered completely in a written answer, but I am ... | |
| "eye of the tiger" | 8/28/2009 |
| Q: My son is in his second year of pee wee football, he is 8 years old. I have an older son who played ... A: Damon This is outside my area of expertise. Based on my experience the desire or killer instinct ... | |
| coaching pee wee football | 8/4/2009 |
| Q: my son just started his second season of pee wee football n he dont have a coach for his 9 to 10 yrs ... A: Jason Pee wee football is a bit out of my area of expertise but give me a couple days to send you ... | |
| football visors | 7/24/2009 |
| Q: Can you wear smoke visors in high school football game? A: QUINN No you can not legally wear smoke visors. Visors may NOT have any tinting or color, they must ... | |
| peewee training | 7/23/2009 |
| Q: First and foremost I would like to thank you in advance for taking the time to read this and for any ... A: Buck Thank you for your question. Unfortunately I am not sure I can help you. I would recommend ... | |
| Coaching in college | 7/20/2009 |
| Q: I have been coaching for about 5 years in semi pro and high school football. i was lucky enough to ... A: David it is not too late! The good thing is you have and continue to gain experience. With a ... | |
| What Colleges look at out of highschool | 7/18/2009 |
| Q: T. Spalding. I go to a 3A Highschool in a small town. I play Defensive End and Right Gaurd. I am ... A: JT it is not an issue, you will do just fine. Keep hitting the weightroom, stay in good shape, ... | |
| football visors | 6/23/2009 |
| Q: i want to wear a visor for the upcoming football season but my coach doesn't let us wear them unless ... A: Joey First, tinted or colored visors (no matter how slight the tinting or color) are illegal ... | |
| football protection gear | 6/2/2009 |
| Q: i always wondered for the wide receivers. does the shoulder pads and helmet and gear slow you down ... A: John Pads don't slow down players very much - it is negligible, A fraction of a second. At first ... | |
| football eyeshields | 5/24/2009 |
| Q: why are colored football eye shields not allowed in high school leagues? A: Colored eyeshield are not allowed for safety reasons and at the lobbying of the National Athletic ... | |
| complicated plays | 5/22/2009 |
| Q: I was thrown into head coaching last year for our JR football team because no other parent wanted to ... A: Chris I am a fundamentals and foundation guy. At the Jr. level I believe keeping it simple and very ... | |
| fullbacks | 5/7/2009 |
| Q: sir, my son played div1 ball as a guard, starting 4 years. had injury and surgery during jr. yr. ... A: Arthur I do not make endorsement or referrals, I can provide you with some information. Please know ... | |
| am i able to play, any tips on workout | 5/4/2009 |
| Q: I was just wondering if there was an age limit to play college football. I played a little football ... A: AJ Generally there are no age requirements unless you plan to play at the D-1A (BCS) level, if so ... | |
| Dead ball fouls | 4/27/2009 |
| Q: If a false start or encroachment (defense crossing neutral zone and makes contact) occurs, the play ... A: Joe Other Dead Ball foul on the offense prior to the snap would be Dead ball Personal Fouls, Snap ... | |
| High School Football/Quaterback | 4/22/2009 |
| Q: To whom may help me, I am a junior in high school and I will be a senior next year. I have played ... A: Ernest Make sure you study the play book, you have to be able to visualize the plays, formations and ... | |
| quarterback | 4/21/2009 |
| Q: im a sophomore gonna be a junior..i am a quarterback and i was wanting to know what i could do to ... A: Jake, The good thing is you have two years to develop these skills to be able to compete for a ... | |
| Preparing for season | 3/2/2009 |
| Q: My names Jeremy and i am 14 and a 8th grader going to 9th next year about 200lbs. I've never been ... A: Jeremy Freshman football is where you will learn the fundamentals. You are already very strong! ... | |
| Gloves | 2/22/2009 |
| Q: As I have read in previous answers of you on 'gloves' I have an additional question. You said this ... A: Georg Thanks for your question. Rule Rule 1-4-5-b provides the manufacturers with the specs ... | |
| eligibility | 2/18/2009 |
| Q: I am wondering the NCAA eligibility rules when it comes to age. I am 21 and joined the military ... A: James 21 Year Age Rule for Division I Only not other Divisions. In Division I only, if a ... | |
| is a player down if his knee is on another player? | 2/2/2009 |
| Q: If in the course of a play is a player who has the ball, considered to be down if his knee is on ... A: This is a great question about grounded players and landing on grounded players and is open to ... | |
| I want to be a starter. | 12/31/2008 |
| Q: my name is kevin and I just finished my freshman year of football and it didnt go as i planned. It ... A: Kevin This type of question I do not normally answer because it requires personal knowledge of your ... | |
| speed | 12/20/2008 |
| Q: I am in the ninth grade, i am a defensive end and my coaches tell me i have a great future at the ... A: Dee Why not try out for multiple positions? Can you play DE and TE? If your coaches say you have a ... | |
| Freshman Football | 12/10/2008 |
| Q: I am a high school teacher and have been coaching wrestling and track, I was approached by the ... A: DON I AM TRYING TO FIND SOME GOOD BASICS FOR YOU - I AM GOING THROUGH A PILE OF REFERENCES AND ... | |
| Getting into college football | 12/9/2008 |
| Q: I have been working out since my senior season of highschool and keeping in good shape. That was ... A: Tyler, It is so much easier that you think. First write a letter to the coach expressing your ... | |
| weight loss | 12/8/2008 |
| Q: i'm 5'10 269-273 i would like to loss 20-50 pouds by my 11th grade season i'm in the 9th grade what ... A: John Good for you. You are on the right track for being a speedy agile athlete and a healthier ... | |
| Getting a late start | 11/29/2008 |
| Q: I am 30 years old and have spent the last 6 years in corporate america. I recently decided to ... A: Rod Congratulations on having the courage to pursue your dream. You will need to network and ... | |
| NFHS Rules on Videotape to over turn out come of game | 11/20/2008 |
| Q: http://www.djournal.com/pages/story.asp<<<check this story out and tell me how is this possible and ... A: Justin The link you sent went to an Error page. Below is the article I think you are questioning ... | |
| Touchdown, Point After | 11/17/2008 |
| Q: My husband and I were talking about this after Thursday night's game and it came into play during ... A: Angie, Thanks for your question. Please know I only answer NCAA rules questions not NFL. So in ... | |
| Nfl 2 foot rule | 11/8/2008 |
| Q: If someone catches the football and one foot is in bounds and half of the other foot hits in bounds ... A: I do not answer NFL questions as this is outside my area of expertise as an NCAA & Federation Rules ... | |
| High school football | 11/7/2008 |
| Q: On fourth down runner goes down prior to first down then a personal foul blow to the head after he ... A: Bob Thanks for your question. You describe a Dead Ball Personal Fouls play. It is not an automatic ... | |
| On-side kick recovery and "moff" ball | 10/25/2008 |
| Q: If a team executes an on-side kick in which the ball goes past 10 yards and the opposing team ... A: Raul No the ball may not be advanced by the kicking team. The status of the ball is still a Free ... | |
| rules | 10/24/2008 |
| Q: If a player catches a ball and is hit by someone on the sideline what are the officials supposed to ... A: Mario, Thanks for the question I need some more information to properly answer your question. I ... | |
| Football | 10/22/2008 |
| Q: My son was severely injured during a high school football game by tackling and landing on another ... A: Debbie I am so sorry to hear of your son's injury. My heart goes out to you and your son. You are ... | |
| OL numbering system | 10/21/2008 |
| Q: I've understood the even (right side) and odd (left side) gap numbering system since I was a kid. ... A: Jeff That is a great question! I have no idea as to the answer- who invented the system or where it ... | |
| throwing mechanics | 10/1/2008 |
| Q: my name is ed i live in the uk and am just starting to play football, i want to play quaterback as i ... A: Ed Here are some instruction video links that can help you: 1. ... | |
| I want to be the best, and be recuited! | 10/1/2008 |
| Q: Well, I'm a junior at my high school. We are a small 3A school. We have not had a winning season ... A: Loggan There are a couple things you can do to be attractive to schools as a player. The first thing ... | |
| chop blocking | 9/29/2008 |
| Q: Do defensive linemen (nose guards in particular ) ever chop block? The reason I ask is my son was ... A: Frank, Thank you for your question. WOW - I am very glad you are astute and following what is being ... | |
| Why am I playing? | 9/25/2008 |
| Q: My son is in his 5th year of playing tackle football, 3rd year playing for his high school. Last ... A: Betty Just following up. How did your son do this week? Is he enjoying the game any more? Has he ... | |
| defending the cut or crab block | 9/24/2008 |
| Q: My son is playing on his first team and asked. How do I defend against the cut block. Can he jump ... A: Ralph Yes he can jump over the cut block but best way is to ward it off by using his hands and ... | |
| Inadvertent Facemask Penalty | 9/20/2008 |
| Q: In a Pennsylvania HS varsity game, offense first and ten from their own 30. QB passed for 4 yard ... A: Dave Thanks for your question I have just returned home form working my college game and as my ... | |
| What does a college football walk-on work out consist of in the D-1A level? | 9/18/2008 |
| Q: Is it combine based? Like, 40 yard dash time, position drills, broad jump, etc. Or, is it like the ... A: Danny It depends on each team as to how the coach will run the walk on try outs. Some programs do a ... | |
| Roughing the Kicker (Punting situation) | 9/16/2008 |
| Q: We had this situation come up and I can't find the exact ruling in the NCAA rulebook. 4th down and ... A: FOLLOW UP: Mark I reviewed my notes from a 2005 Rules meeting presented by lecturers from ... | |
| gloves | 9/14/2008 |
| Q: I have under armor gloves that are gray and black on top with a silver front that would be on the ... A: Andrew, Thank you for your question I apologize for the slight delay in answering it. As my ... | |
| Miami-Florida reception along the sideline | 9/8/2008 |
| Q: During the Miami-Florida game this past weekend, there was a reception that a Florida receiver made ... A: Dave, Thanks for your question. I have heard about this play and have read about it but did not see ... | |
| Defensive End Technique | 9/6/2008 |
| Q: At a local high school game a defensive end on the opposing team would lay on downed offensive ... A: FOLLOW UP _ Dave, Hold as described is a Defensive hold. The high school rules have been reluctant ... | |
| College Football & Becoming Pro | 8/6/2008 |
| Q: My name is Justin and i am 17 yrs old.. My question is, 1.)Do i have to play high school football ... A: Justin No, you don't have to play high school football to play college football but it helps. High ... | |
| The "snap down" play for O line | 7/30/2008 |
| Q: I'm trying to find the high school rules interpretation of whether or not the snap down is legal in ... A: It is illegal. The intent to cause the defense to foul (encroach) is illegal and unethical (per ... | |
| Getting Started Basics of Football and Understanding Film | 7/27/2008 |
| Q: I'm basically an avid football fan that watches on TV and goes to a few games per year but I really ... A: Bill, I am not sure how to answer this question, I have spent a few hours thinking about my reply ... | |
| The tint on visors | 7/25/2008 |
| Q: im Broderick, My question is that for where i play in college is that we play all day games and it ... A: Broaderick, The simply answer is light tinting is not permitted and I do not know why retailers ... | |
| Tinted Visors in the West | 7/23/2008 |
| Q: I've noticed a lot of questions pertaining to visors and their colors and I've just now thought of ... A: John Under "NCAA" playing rules, a dark tinted visor is illegal equipment for all conferences and ... | |
| visors | 7/14/2008 |
| Q: are you allowed to wear dark visors in high school on your helmet in the state of virginia? A: Hunter, NO it is not permitted. The answer to your question is NO. There can be no tinting at all in ... | |
| arm strength | 7/10/2008 |
| Q: How can i increase my arm strength. I am a freshman quarterback A: Malik Weight training (upper and lower body), stretching, core training and passing drills are the ... | |
| Coloured Visor's | 6/29/2008 |
| Q: I've been playing NCAFA football for 10 years now, and last year before the season started ... A: Jay I am an NCAA Football Expert your question is out of my area of expertise, but I will address it ... | |
| GIRLS | 6/18/2008 |
| Q: IS IT POSSIBLE FOR A WOMAN TO PLAY IN THE NFL? A: Angelina This is an open ended question. It is possible for a woman to play in the NFL if she has ... | |
| Tinted Football Visors | 6/4/2008 |
| Q: I recently stumbled across your clearly defined explanation for players to only wear clear visors on ... A: Rich, Thanks for the question. The article you read does not apply to College or High school rules. ... | |
| coaching ethics | 5/28/2008 |
| Q: is it ethical for a high school basketball coach to work the ref? if so how much? A: Mike this a bit outside my expertise as it pertains to basketball. "Working the Ref" has never ... | |
| Visors | 5/23/2008 |
| Q: Since a visor cannot have any tint, does that exclude the use of mirrored ones too? ANSWER: ... A: Phillip, Excellent question. The primary reason why they are still sold is simple economics - there ... | |
| Visors | 5/20/2008 |
| Q: Since a visor cannot have any tint, does that exclude the use of mirrored ones too? A: Phillip, Yes, the Rule excludes mirrored visors. All visors must be 100%: clear, transparent, ... | |
| cut block in high school football | 5/11/2008 |
| Q: Is the cut block allowed in high school football (in California)? My son plays middle linebacker, ... A: FOLLOW-UP ANSWER: The term "Cut Block" is not a block as defined in rule 2 OF THE NATIONAL ... | |
| cut block in high school football | 5/9/2008 |
| Q: Is the cut block allowed in high school football (in California)? My son plays middle linebacker, ... A: Daryl, I need to know some more information about the play you describe before I can give you an ... | |
| NCAA GLOVES - receiver gloves | 5/5/2008 |
| Q: Can a receiver wear another color of gloves different of Gray ones, like blue or red? Based on the ... A: Pepe No, all players who wear gloves must wear GRAY gloves only. All other colors are prohibited. ... | |
| Recovering from ACL And MCL tear | 4/30/2008 |
| Q: Well im recovering from an ACL and MCL tear and im trying to get stronger faster and trying to gain ... A: Austin This is a medical/physical therapy question and outside my area of expertise. Although I ... | |
| Eyeshields | 4/29/2008 |
| Q: Will i get into trouble if i were a tinded eyeshild, but i have an eye docters note A: Jon Any tinted eyeshield with or without a doctors note authorizing it is illegal equipment. The ... | |
| how do get into american footbal | 4/28/2008 |
| Q: hi how r ya im from Australia and i love American football we have a small league over here and im ... A: Ian How to get noticed? That is the million dollar question. First, you need to contact colleges ... | |
| defensive end | 4/19/2008 |
| Q: currently i play offensive tackle, but i have always wanted to be a defensive end. i am 5'9" 214lbs, ... A: JD Yes, you always have a chance and I encourage you to try out for DE. I assume you are playing ... | |
| TINTED VISORS | 4/10/2008 |
| Q: WHY CANT YOU WEAR TINTED VISORS.ISN'T THE RULE THE REF HAS TO PUT HIS GAME CARD BEHIND THE VISOR AND ... A: John You may ONLY wear a clear non tinted visor/eye shield under NCAA and National Federation ... | |
| I REALLY NEED TO LOOSE WEIGHT AND GAIN SPEED!! | 4/7/2008 |
| Q: OK LISTEN IVE BEEN PLAYING FOOTBALL SINCE 7TH GRADE IM NOW IN THE 11TH BUT I USE TO PLAY STRONG ... A: Lonnie Thanks for the question, it is a bit outside my field as you are asking a nutrition and ... | |
| football helmet shields | 4/4/2008 |
| Q: in alabama what is the darkest tint you can have for your football helmet shield A: Chris In Alabama or any other of the 49 states the rule is the same - NO Tint. The rule states ... | |
| Safety | 3/19/2008 |
| Q: Heyy, Last year i played running back and am the fastest on my team. But im not sure i can cut it ... A: Matt You are still growing. You are in 8th grade, your body will grow and you will mature over the ... | |
| Tinted Visors? | 3/12/2008 |
| Q: I'm going to play and Pima Community College this year and i was wondering if i could wear a ... A: Colby NO! You may not play with a mirrored visor. The 2008 NCAA Rules are not finalized but the ... | |
| Free Safety Questions | 3/4/2008 |
| Q: My name is Russell and I am a sophmore in high school. I currently weigh 120lbs and am 5'6". I run ... A: Russell First off, I have tow philosophies: 1, play the position you enjoy and don't listen to your ... | |
| what should i do | 3/1/2008 |
| Q: i am 16 5'10 sophomore i wanna play running back what can i do to get faster stronger and bigger ... A: Thomas, Hit the weight room and start running and conditioning. Weight lifting is very important to ... | |
| Zone Blocking | 2/26/2008 |
| Q: I coach a football team in Germany and am also their QB. Since my Offensive Coordinator just quit, i ... A: Jimmy I recommend you contact the site below it has a lot of information, diagrams and techinques ... | |
| general rules | 2/24/2008 |
| Q: I don't know if this is in your expertise, but I would like to know if you can give me the basic ... A: This ball is also called a football. The sport is played on a grass field, about 120 yards long and ... | |
| Can I make it? | 1/21/2008 |
| Q: my name is Ron"Big mac"Mcintosh. I played football at clarke centeral in Athens,GA.I'm 6-foot 295. I ... A: Ron Remember the reason you go to college is for an education, not football. Football is something ... | |
| Can I make it? | 1/19/2008 |
| Q: my name is Ron"Big mac"Mcintosh. I played football at clarke centeral in Athens,GA.I'm 6-foot 295. I ... A: Ron First, don't give up! You can never accomplish your dreams or goals if you give up. One thing ... | |
| offensive holding / use of hands rule question | 1/19/2008 |
| Q: I am a college writing instructor and football fan. This semester, I'm excited to have a chance to ... A: Kerri There have been no rule changes within the last 10+ years concerning Holding at the NCAA ... | |
| NFL | 1/19/2008 |
| Q: I know just about nothing when it comes to football. Where would be the best place to start ... A: Mike The National Football League (NFL) is the largest professional American football league. It ... | |
| Ball spot when player is down Forward Progress | 1/13/2008 |
| Q: Is the ball spotted where the player is considered down (i.e. where the player's knee first touched ... A: Scott The forward progress spot is the forward most point of the ball where it was when the ball ... | |
| NCAA Fumble Rules | 1/12/2008 |
| Q: If a player on team A fumbles the ball on a 1st and 10 at the 20, about four yards into the run(24 ... A: Roman Assuming it is A's Ball 1st & 10 at the A-20; A runner fumbles at the A-24 where it is ... | |
| College football | 12/17/2007 |
| Q: Can please provide the UCLA Personal Touch Camp Website? A: Tommy I just got a response about the UCLA Personal Touch Camp- The bad news is that Chad Brown and ... | |
| FOOTBALL | 12/15/2007 |
| Q: I'm home schooled and I was wondering if I would be able to play high school football even if I ... A: Chris Thanks for the question. First regarding home schooled students playing football - that is a ... | |
| Kickoff | 12/5/2007 |
| Q: Victor, First, let me thank you for volunteering to answer questions. I am a fellow AllExspert ... A: Elder The answer to your question is it is a touch back beacuse the ball becomes dead by rule once ... | |
| Roughing the punter | 11/26/2007 |
| Q: Punt rush occurs and no block or piece of ball happens. At what point can the punter be blocked or ... A: FOLLOW-UP Danny Your question "At what point can the punter be blocked or hit?" is a little ... | |
| Prescription visors | 11/16/2007 |
| Q: I wear a glasses and i have astigmatism an dthe past season in pop warner I just played without ... A: Jeff It is allowed under both high school and college rules to wear a prescription visor as long as ... | |
| visors | 10/30/2007 |
| Q: Is a smoke tint visor legal in high school football.I found it on homerunsports.com its An under ... A: No. The rule states there can be NO tinting no matter how little the percentage of tint. Victor ... | |
| Starting Clock | 10/22/2007 |
| Q: Example: running play runner is tackled out of bounds. Clock stops of course. Next play is a running ... A: Rick The general rule for a fan is to keep in mind what the status of the clock was before the clock ... | |
| Toss To Punter | 10/21/2007 |
| Q: I was involved in a middle school game the other day where the snapper hiked the ball to the upback, ... A: Fernando, As I understand your play it was a trick play with a Kicker in position to punt the ball ... | |
| Knee on the ground - Down? | 10/19/2007 |
| Q: If a player is down when he has the ball and his knee touches the ground, then how do any field ... A: ..? The reason is because of NCAA Football Rule 4-1-3(b, exception). This rule creates the ... | |
| cut/chop blocking | 10/4/2007 |
| Q: my son is a varsity defensive lineman and last week he played a team that cut and chop blocked him ... A: William Thanks for your question. You use the terms cut and chop blocks. There are terms of art ... | |
| Roughing the Kicker (Punter) | 9/29/2007 |
| Q: My dad coached high school football in Texas for over 30 years, yet this particular penalty has ... A: Steven Excellent question. The commentators tend to be the root of the confusion by not knowing ... | |
| Intentional Grounding by the QB | 9/27/2007 |
| Q: What is the ruling on intentional grounding by the QB in a High School Game? Do the terms "outside ... A: Kathy, You are not going to like the answer because you make an excellent point with respect to ... | |
| Conflicting Penalties | 9/24/2007 |
| Q: I saw this pair of calls this weekend, I believe in the MI/PS game: One of (Michigan's) receivers ... A: Dave your line of reasoning is correct. I have searched YouTube for the play but could not find it. ... | |
| Should I allow my son to quit? | 9/24/2007 |
| Q: I have a ten year old son that is playing contact football for the first time this year. This is ... A: Elizabeth Sorry for the delay in my reply, I am an on field college football official and was ... | |
| 1970 rule on knee hitting the ground | 9/21/2007 |
| Q: Did High School Football ever allowed a player to fall by himself to one knee and if that player was ... A: Mark Good Question. My personal library goes back to 1964 and the National Federation rule from ... | |
| NFL referee | 9/18/2007 |
| Q: To learn how to become an NFL referee are there certain colleges for this or must you take classes ... A: Jared Before you can become an NFL official you must first start officiating at lower levels (Pop ... | |
| tinted goggles for JAAF | 9/4/2007 |
| Q: Do you know the CIF rule on the tinted goggles. I cannot find anything in regards to face shield ... A: Yes, Laura you are correct there is no rule in the National Federation Rules that prohibit tinted ... | |
| Weighing and approving game ball | 9/4/2007 |
| Q: Who is responsible for weighing hs game balls? Who is responsible for approving hs game balls? Who ... A: Sullivan I need some more information Before I can answer this what mechanics are you using: 7 man 5 ... | |
| visor | 9/3/2007 |
| Q: . im the starting qb on my seventh grade team in Minnesota and i want to get a visor for my helmet. ... A: Conor Under the National Federation Rules (High School) and NCAA Rule you can have 0% tint. No ... | |
| tinted goggles for JAAF | 9/3/2007 |
| Q: Do you know the CIF rule on the tinted goggles. I cannot find anything in regards to face shield ... A: Laura, The rule you seek is under the National Federation football rules (High School). The rule ... | |
| Football | 8/23/2007 |
| Q: I have a 10 year old son who just started football at school. He is having a hard time learning the ... A: Martha The first thing your son needs to learn is not the plays! He must learn not to quit. This ... | |
| Football Weigh In Weight Loss | 8/23/2007 |
| Q: My son is 8 years old and the weight limit is 94 lbs. he is 95.1, we have had him on a healthy lean ... A: Bridget, This is a bit out of my expertise with respect to Weight loss. But my expert opinion as to ... | |
| Running into Kicker | 8/18/2007 |
| Q: On 4th and long Offense lines up in punt formation. D Tackle is not blocked and running at the ... A: Marc In this follow up situation a Punter by holding the ball for a longer time than reasonable and ... | |
| Running into Kicker | 8/18/2007 |
| Q: On 4th and long Offense lines up in punt formation. D Tackle is not blocked and running at the ... A: Marc You pose a very good question and reasoned very well. However, you need to consider a few ... | |
| Tinted Rec Spec's | 8/14/2007 |
| Q: Does the tinting rule also apply to glasses. If so, is it only a full tint or is a lens that ... A: Under the NCAA rules tinting does Not apply to Glasses or contact lens only the eye shield visors ... | |
| visors | 8/12/2007 |
| Q: i have what doctors call a migraine aura.....and its caused by quick flashes of light....now i have ... A: Alan, No you will not be permitted to play. The rules are very clear that no visor may be worn with ... | |
| do i have to play for college in order to try out for the nfl one day? | 8/10/2007 |
| Q: my question is regarding the rules of trying out for NFL. i wasn't fortunate enough to play for ... A: No you are able to try out given your age and number of semesters since graduating from High School. ... | |
| Prescription Visors | 8/7/2007 |
| Q: I read that question about prescription visors... how do you get them? I have searched and called ... A: GRahm, I just advise as to the rules, I don't write them. As far as taking the helment off, they ... | |
| foward pass rules | 8/3/2007 |
| Q: Can a player pass the ball foward using an underhanded passing motion...( or is that an illegal ... A: Kevin Under both rules the NCAA and National Federation (and NFL) it is legal to throw a forward ... | |
| visor labeling | 8/1/2007 |
| Q: While the rules make it clear that tinted visors are not permitted (even with prescription from ... A: Marc A follow up to my answer. I took a quick look in my library and in 2005 the NCAA issued a ... | |
| Football visors | 7/28/2007 |
| Q: There has been a rumor going around our team saying that the rules on visors have been changed, and ... A: The rule is that visors are NOT to have ANY tint. 0% clear eye shield/visor is the only legal eye ... | |
| Visor | 7/6/2007 |
| Q: I saw you responded to a similar question, but it was for a different reason. I will be a Junior ... A: Michael I do not know of a manufacturer that makes the perscription visor. As you know any tinting ... | |
| how do i be a better cornerback | 7/2/2007 |
| Q: well i need advice on how to cover better hit people thats really bigger than me and how to get my ... A: Ashton You won't like my advice but I is the best advice for your situation. You are 11 years old. ... | |
| How to catch a ball under pressure | 6/24/2007 |
| Q: I'm a 6'1 184 pound Tight End entering my freshmen year. i need help on catching the ball more ... A: Tony, You describe a problem that affects many receivers that result from lack of concentration ... | |
| 1970's Dallas cowboys book | 5/5/2007 |
| Q: Our adopted Grandmother used to work in a printing shop that did the Dallas Cowboys printing in the ... A: 8/15/10 Helen In response to a quesion you asked outside my area of expertise 3 years ago about a ... | |
| Coaching | 5/5/2007 |
| Q: I am a college freshman interesting in becoming a coach. Would you recommend that I major in ... A: Patrick, This question is a bit out of my area of expertise. I ran your quest by 3 coach friends of ... | |
| glasses | 4/25/2007 |
| Q: is it true that there are visors that help quarterbacks see if they need glasses? A: Jordan, First, Visors are not legal equipment except if there is a doctor's prescription for such a ... | |
| Coach vs. Ref | 4/23/2007 |
| Q: As a referee, what is the best way for a coach to communicate with you during the game. At times ... A: FOLLOW UP QUESTION****** Coach Cook, First please accept my apology for your concerns falling on ... | |
| Coach vs. Ref | 4/20/2007 |
| Q: As a referee, what is the best way for a coach to communicate with you during the game. At times ... A: Coach Cook, Great Questions! I have tried to teach this at high school coaches clinics but it seems ... | |
| College Football Question | 4/20/2007 |
| Q: What would be an acceptable 40 yard dash time for a junior college wide receiver or a receiver in ... A: Patrick, That is kind of an open ended question as what would be "acceptable" that depends on the ... | |
| Kick Off | 4/18/2007 |
| Q: Can a team free kick a kick off, or must htey use a kicking tee? If they can free kick, must the ... A: I presume the rules you will use are the National Federation rules and not the NCAA. The kicking ... | |
| Kick Off | 4/18/2007 |
| Q: Can a team free kick a kick off, or must htey use a kicking tee? If they can free kick, must the ... A: FOLLOW UP --- LINK, there is a rule in the National Federation Rule Book that prohibits ... | |
| Kick Off | 4/18/2007 |
| Q: Can a team free kick a kick off, or must htey use a kicking tee? If they can free kick, must the ... A: I am not sure I understad your question as you use the term "free kick " which is a term of art not ... | |
| football 101 | 4/2/2007 |
| Q: I played Football as a youth>I now want to school my sons in the sport.where should I start? A: Danard, There are several good fundamental books about football that were published in the 1970s and ... | |
| eligibility | 3/7/2007 |
| Q: Do you know of examples when the NCAA has given a waiver to the D1, 5 year elegibility rule? A: The NCAA does give waivers for additional eligibility under certain circumstances of hardship but it ... | |
| How to be recognized... | 1/9/2007 |
| Q: I am playing on a high school team, and we have a running back who is very good. And I am ... A: Nick, First and foremost, if you want to play college football you can! The most important thing you ... | |
| Penalties | 1/5/2007 |
| Q: If the offensive side of the ball scores points to put themselves in the lead at the end of a game, ... A: I need a little more information to answer this question. I believe you are asking: Can the game ... | |
| dead ball foul | 11/27/2006 |
| Q: Team A has no timeouts left. They are down 14-13, it is in the 4th Quarter. Team A has the ball on ... A: Greg, I presume you are talking about a high school game since the foul was for illegal procedure; ... | |
| why are gloves gray | 11/26/2006 |
| Q: why did the ncaa make gray gloves mandatory in 1999? i can't seem to find the reasoning behind this ... A: David, Good question and I have been going through my NCAA bulletins all morning to get you the ... | |
| Playing with glasses on | 11/25/2006 |
| Q: Hey! Im not sure if you are the right person to ask this question or not, but my name is Aaron and I ... A: Aaron, Thank you for your question. I hope you do join the club and get the chance to play American ... | |
| Fumbles | 11/13/2006 |
| Q: This weekend my son played in a game where he was playing defense and he tackled an offensive player ... A: Ty, Thanks for your question and thanks for clearing it up for me. First the ruling is correct it ... | |
| Hey | 11/10/2006 |
| Q: What is the age eligibility for college football walk ons?Would you say A 23 year old sophomore ... A: Jake, A 23 year old would be eligible to walk on; provided he had not played and used up his ... | |
| ejection from game | 10/31/2006 |
| Q: What offenses determine ejection from a jv high school game. My son was ejected for saying bullshit ... A: There are several things that can get a player ejected under the NCAA and Federation Rules - ... | |
| throwing mechanics | 10/30/2006 |
| Q: I'm asking how do you throw farther? A: First and foremost you must be in condition with strong muscles. I recently attended a clinic where ... | |
| Intentional Grounding | 10/25/2006 |
| Q: What is the "incentive" for a QB who knows he is going to get sacked for *NOT* intentionally ... A: The logic sometimes escapes me, but remember the rules are written by coaches who make up the NCAA ... | |
| Football | 10/15/2006 |
| Q: On a kick off, can the kicking team advance a recvered on side kick ? also can the offense have more ... A: Rick, Thank you for you question. The kicking team be it a free kick or scrimmage kick may never ... | |
| JV vs. Varsity Rules | 10/12/2006 |
| Q: Can a high school Senior play on Junior Varsity or should they be playing on Varsity during league ... A: Chris Thank you for your question. The answer to your question depends on your State High school ... | |
| wat should i do | 10/10/2006 |
| Q: hey my name is mike and i was just wondering if i should play high-school football....im 5'3 ... A: Follow up: Mike first you need to have a heart to heart with your parents and secure their ... | |
| wat should i do | 10/8/2006 |
| Q: hey my name is mike and i was just wondering if i should play high-school football....im 5'3 ... A: Mike, Thanks for your question. First, do "you" want to play football? It doesn't matter what ... | |
| Starting from scratch | 10/7/2006 |
| Q: Well my boyfriend is all about sports. He coaches little league football and baseball and has done ... A: Sherry, Thanks for your question - it is a bit out of my area as I am an expert on the technical ... | |
| intentional grounding for high school | 10/6/2006 |
| Q: I know what the penalty is for the pros and college for intentional grounding. Is the same for high ... A: Ted, Thank s for yuor question. No the Federartion rule (7-5-2) is not the same as the NCAA or NFL ... | |
| Gloves | 9/12/2006 |
| Q: I wanted to know if its better to throw with Receiver gloves or without and why . Thank you ... A: Cody, The answer to your question depends on the passer. Some say the gloves give them better grip ... | |
| coaching | 7/28/2003 |
| Q: My son is 14 years old and is playing on the freshman team this year. His coach ask me if I would be ... A: Jed, Just following on on your first year of coaching and your son's first year of high school ... | |
| Safe Tackleing | 7/21/2003 |
| Q: my two sons are playing little leage football and the coaches are teaching the players to tackle by ... A: Michael. You had asked me a question in July and I answered it regarding tackeling techniques. I ... | |
Football Instruction
Answers by Expert:
Victor Winnek
Top Expert on this page
Expertise
I answer questions related to: Football Officiating; NCAA & Federation Rules; History of Football; Football Officiating - Mechanics (2,3,4,5,7 man); NCAA Rules & High School Rules; Player Safety, Issues of liability arising from injuries, workers compensation, discrimination of officials, Standard of Care; Serve as an Consultant and Expert Witness in Football Related Matters. History of the Game. Instructor of officials. I do not answer questions as to what position a person should play or what their chances are ...
Experience
24 years officiating High School & College football, NCAA Referee, Line Judge, Head Linesman; 2 years Arena Football-substitution official; Instructor of NCAA & Federation Officials, Member of the Board of Directors CFOA-Long Beach & South Bay Units, Pres. of Executive Council of Calif. Football Officials Assoc.; CIF Presidents' Council on Officiating; Chairman of the Officiating Ethics Committee; Played prep & college football; coached High School football; Athletic trainer
Organizations
President of Calif. Football Officials Assoc.; Western Collegiate Football Officials Assoc.; CFOA-Long Beach Unit
Publications
Referee Magazine; California Football Officials Assoc. Instructor's Guide; NCAA Div. 1-AA football officials clinic; CFOA instrutional materials; UWLA Law Review Answers are for educational and information purposes only and may not be reprinted, reporduced or used in any: articles, blogs, research, news story or republished in any fashion without the expressed permission and consent of the under signed.
Education/Credentials
BA USC 1987
JD UWLA School of Law 1996
3 Years Reno Football Officials Clinic
Big 12 Mini Clinic
4 Years UCLA Football Officials Camp
24 years of instruction in Officiating Football
Awards and Honors
9 Bowl games, NCAA Div. 1 FCS; CIF State Championship, 9 years CIF Finals, 10 years CIF Semi-finals, 17 years of CIF play-offs.
NCAA Div. III Semi-Finals
I will not dignify rude or disparaging comments with a response. I also will not entertain questions that use profanity. Football officials don't seek to “screw” any team Such an insinuation is ridiculous and ludicrous.
Past/Present Clients
If you have NFL question I suggest you contact NFL experts here on AllExperts.com or Mike Pereira on Wed. Afternoons at 1PM EST/10AM PST http://msn.foxsports.com/nfl/page/Mike-Pereira-FOX-NFL-Rules-Analyst I work with Mike at FoxSports on Sundays in the Control Center explaining rules and officiating
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