CBSSports. The NFL will move umpires back to their old spots during the final five minutes of Thursdays preseason games.

Previously they were in the old spot for only 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 Peyton Manning complained about the switch after being called twice for illegal snaps when the umpire couldnt get into position quickly enough last week at Green Bay.

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

Posted on September 2nd, 2010 by admin
Filed under: NFL football news