NFL officials visit Detroit, talk gambling
NFL officials Don Carlsen, Greg Meyer, Jim Quirk and Paul Weidner met with the media after the Lions' morning practice Saturday in Allen Park. Here are excerpts from the discussion:
• With the recent gambling allegations against NBA referee Tim Donaghy, the officials were asked about the NFL's rules on the subject. They indicated that they're not allowed to visit any casino, track or other place hosting gambling during the season. They may go to a casino during the off-season, but still ask for permission from the league. Officials may not be inside a sports book at any time during their careers. The NFL conducts thorough background checks during the interview process, including visiting relatives, neighbors and coworkers and examining the official's credit history.
• Five-yard penalties will be charged to any player who spikes a ball after a non-scoring play this season. Officials also will warn players about celebrations after non-scoring plays (i.e. Roy Williams' first-down arm motion). If those celebrations continue, they could be penalized by 2008.
• Dives into the end zone will not be touchdowns unless some part of the ball crosses the goal line or touches the pylon. Last year's rules allowed for any part of the player's body to touch down in the end zone for a TD.
• Players will be warned and then fined if they do not completely buckle their chin straps.
NFL officials Don Carlsen, Greg Meyer, Jim Quirk and Paul Weidner met with the media after the Lions' morning practice Saturday in Allen Park. Here are excerpts from the discussion:
• With the recent gambling allegations against NBA referee Tim Donaghy, the officials were asked about the NFL's rules on the subject. They indicated that they're not allowed to visit any casino, track or other place hosting gambling during the season. They may go to a casino during the off-season, but still ask for permission from the league. Officials may not be inside a sports book at any time during their careers. The NFL conducts thorough background checks during the interview process, including visiting relatives, neighbors and coworkers and examining the official's credit history.
• Five-yard penalties will be charged to any player who spikes a ball after a non-scoring play this season. Officials also will warn players about celebrations after non-scoring plays (i.e. Roy Williams' first-down arm motion). If those celebrations continue, they could be penalized by 2008.
• Dives into the end zone will not be touchdowns unless some part of the ball crosses the goal line or touches the pylon. Last year's rules allowed for any part of the player's body to touch down in the end zone for a TD.
• Players will be warned and then fined if they do not completely buckle their chin straps.
