The invention of the play clock in football enabled the game to be played with balance and pace. It allowed teams a specific amount of time in between downs for play calling and substitutions. The play clock also prevented teams from stalling and consuming large portions of the game clock to preserve a lead. Over time, rules have been created to make the process of maintaining a play clock as efficient as possible while keeping the competitive balance in check. In this article, I will discuss the basics mechanics of the play clock and the scenarios of having a 40 second play clock versus a 25 second play clock.
40 Second Play Clock
The default scenario is a 40 second play clock for basic game flow. The 40 seconds begins once the ball is declared dead after a scrimmage play that does not involve a score, change of possession, penalty, or end of a quarter. There are a few situations in which a 40 second play clock will run following a ready for play whistle. This includes:
- Defensive Foul in which the game clock will run after administration
- Defensive Equipment Issue
- Defensive Injury Timeout
25 Second Play Clock
The alternate scenario is a 25 second play clock. A 25 second clock is used prior to a free kick, try after touchdown, beginning of a new possession (prior to the first play from scrimmage), or administrative stoppage in play. The 25 seconds begins once the ready for play whistle is blown. Administrative stoppages that precede a 25 second play clock include:
- Penalty Administration
- Offensive Injury
- Offensive Equipment Issue
- Measurements
- Charged Time Outs
- Official Time Outs
- Beginning of a Period
Using the Play Clock to Consume Time
Remember that rules are always in place to prevent either team from illegally consuming time via the play clock. That means that any penalties or delays in action by the offense during a running game clock will default to a 25 second play clock after the ready for play whistle. This will prevent the offense from burning extra time in the waning moments of a close game. Penalties or delays by the defense during a running game clock will default to a 40 second play clock after the ready for whistle. This prevents any advantage gained by “potential” feinting of injuries to stop a running clock. Remember that the referee can exercise their right to stop a running game clock if they feel a team is trying to gain an unfair advantage. See the The Game Clock (Starting and Stopping) for more information.
Resetting a Play Clock
There are situations when a play clock may need to be reset. If there is a mechanical or operator error prior to a ready for play whistle or imminent snap, the referee should be notified immediately, and the play blown dead. At this point the play clock should be tested/reset or turned off and a subsequent ready for play whistle blown. If the ball is unusually late being spotted (officials’ error), a reset to 25 seconds is within reason.
Resetting Play Clock Signals
Resetting a 40 second clock is done by pumping both hands with open palms overhead.
Resetting a 25 second play clock is done by pumping one hand with an open palm overhead.
Play Clock Responsibility
It is the responsibility of the clock operators during pregame to check all timing devices to make sure that they are functioning properly. In the event the play clock in no longer operable, the Back Judge will assume responsibility for keeping the play clock on the field. At 10 seconds remaining in the play clock, they will raise their hand above their head to signal to the teams and officials.
Conclusion
The play clock was designed to keep a general flow throughout a ball game. Tweaks have been made over time to prevent intentional misuse and provide clearer guidelines of when to use a 40 second or 25 second play clock. Overall, the play clock has succeeded in helping officials manage a more efficient product on the field.
