Cure to fix penalties? Referees will become regulars at Cowboys' practice

[manny891]

http://cowboysblog.dallasnews.com/archives/2010/10/referees-will-become-regulars.html

By Gerry Fraley / Reporter

The Dallas Cowboys today introduced what will become a staple for the remainder of the season: officials calling penalties at practice.

Five officials -- retired NFL referee Phil Luckett and four collegiate officials -- participated in practice as part of the Cowboys' attempt to cut penalties. The Cowboys lead the league with 80.8 yards per game in penalties and rank second in penalties with 9.8 per game.

According to coach Wade Phillips, the officials were asked to concentrate on specific infractions. During practice, each play with a penalty was done again. In Friday's meetings, the coaching staff will review the penalties with the players.

Phillips said the Cowboys will have officials work two practices per week for the duration of the season. On a normal week, the officials would be present for Wednesday and Thursday practices in advance of a Sunday game. The Cowboys usually practice in pads and do their most extensive preparation work on those days.

``We realize penalties are hurting us,'' coach Wade Phillips said. ``We're trying to do everything we can. ... I thought our players did a good job overall. We've got to do more. It hasn't been good enough, so we're going to do something else to try to help ourselves.''

[Hitman21ST]

http://cowboysblog.dallasnews.com/archives/2010/10/referees-will-become-regulars.html

By Gerry Fraley / Reporter

The Dallas Cowboys today introduced what will become a staple for the remainder of the season: officials calling penalties at practice.

Five officials -- retired NFL referee Phil Luckett and four collegiate officials -- participated in practice as part of the Cowboys' attempt to cut penalties. The Cowboys lead the league with 80.8 yards per game in penalties and rank second in penalties with 9.8 per game.

According to coach Wade Phillips, the officials were asked to concentrate on specific infractions. During practice, each play with a penalty was done again. In Friday's meetings, the coaching staff will review the penalties with the players.

Phillips said the Cowboys will have officials work two practices per week for the duration of the season. On a normal week, the officials would be present for Wednesday and Thursday practices in advance of a Sunday game. The Cowboys usually practice in pads and do their most extensive preparation work on those days.

``We realize penalties are hurting us,'' coach Wade Phillips said. ``We're trying to do everything we can. ... I thought our players did a good job overall. We've got to do more. It hasn't been good enough, so we're going to do something else to try to help ourselves.''

It's so they get a more realistic practice...they want to practice their "I didn't do it" faces, and Wade and Garrett arguing with the refs over a call.