If Thursday’s training camp practice is any indication, we could see an increase in the number of penalties called by NFL officials this season.
NFL Referee Ed Hochuli and three members of his officiating crew took to the practice field on Thursday. In a one-on-one drill between Green Bay Packers wide receivers and defensive backs, flags were flying on a regular basis. In fact, Hochuli said, “I think we had 10 (penalties) out of the first 10 plays on the defensive backs in the receiver drill.”
The defensive players don’t like it. If wide receivers push-off and the defenders aren’t allowed to push back, then we’ll witness a one-sided scenario. Wide receivers will have a field day.
Hochuli said the players will adjust, and they’ll have to, because the guys in stripes will be watching.
AUDIO: Referee Ed Hochuli says pass interference will be more strict in 2014 :17
“Grabbing the jersey or any other part of the receiver’s uniform is defensive holding and will be called regardless whether or not the official deems that the grab impeded or restricted the receiver,” said Hochuli. [Read more…]