Umpire (American football)
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In American football, the umpire is usually the second-senior official on the field, ranking below the referee. He is positioned behind the defensive line, observing the blocks by the offensive line and the defenders trying to ward off those blocks -- looking for holding or illegal blocks. He moves forward towards the line of scrimmage as passing plays develop in order to penalize any offensive linemen who move illegally downfield before the pass is thrown. He also assists on ruling incomplete passes when the ball is thrown short.
Since the umpire is situated where much of the action occurs, it is considered by many to be the most dangerous officiating position.
See also: Official (American football)
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