#TBT: Generations of Football Champions
By
Geoff Kimmerly
MHSAA.com senior editor
August 28, 2014
Our first Second Half Throwback Thursday of 2014-15 is such a long toss into the past that we don't know many of the details behind this photo – aside from the common tie between these celebrating athletes and those kicking off this weekend who hope to celebrate as well their football accomplishments.
This photo was submitted by Mark Duffy, the son of the player holding the trophy, Ferndale Lincoln's Jack Duffy, who is being carried by his teammates and served as their captain.
It was taken sometime during the mid-1940s. Identifying the trophy's significance is trickier still. The MHSAA playoffs didn't begin until 1975, and "mythical" state champions were selected by The Associated Press or Detroit Free Press or News usually after the fact. This trophy might've celebrated a league title or been given as part of an annual "trophy" game, of which there are many played each week.
Be the Referee: Football Holding
By
Sam Davis
MHSAA Director of Officials
August 27, 2024
Be The Referee is a series of short messages designed to help educate people on the rules of different sports, to help them better understand the art of officiating, and to recruit officials.
Below is this week's segment – Football Holding - Listen
In football, it’s often said that holding happens on every play. But does it?
When an offensive player uses their hands or arms to illegally restrain a defensive player – that’s holding. This typically happens when blockers grab or pull defensive players away from their path – impeding their ability to make a play. The penalty is 10 yards from the previous spot.
Defensive players can be flagged for holding as well. That’s also a 10-yard penalty. An example of defensive holding is when a cornerback grabs a receiver to slow him down before the ball is thrown. If that same contact happens while the pass is in the air – then it’s pass interference. Defensive pass interference is a 15-yard penalty.
PHOTO A football official signals holding during a 2023 game. (Photo by Gary Shook.)