Umps moving back to old positions at end of preseason finale

[jady]

The NFL will move umpires back to their old spots during the final five minutes of Thursday night's preseason games.

Previously, the umpires were in the old spot for just the final two minutes of each half.

NFL spokesman Corry Rush confirmed the adjustment Wednesday.

League officials decided to move umpires from the old spot, in the middle of the defense, to behind the deepest running back for safety reasons. But Indianapolis Colts quarterback Peyton Manning complained about the switch after being called twice for illegal snaps when the umpire couldn't get into position quickly enough during a game last week at Green Bay.

The NFL will again re-evaluate the new policy after this week's preseason finales. The change could become permanent when the regular season starts.

[dgan]

Why doesn't the ump move into the old spot ANY time the offense is in the hurry up. It's not hard to put down the ball and see Olinemen standing on top of you. If they are huddling up, put the ball down and go ahead to the new position. What's the problem?

Although, I like Ron Jaworski's idea - put them in helmet and pads!

[portisfan24]

Heaven forbid we upset Peyton Manning.