Referee's Signal Number 21 - Delay of Game

Delay of Game

When used

This signal has several meaning, but mostly is used by the Referee to indicate that there has been an undue delay, or that the 25-second clock has run out. May also be used against the defense if they are not ready following a timeout and the offense are ready to snap the ball. Similarly against the defense when they attempt to simulate the cadence of the quarterback.

Penalty

5 yards from the previous spot.

How executed

Both hands start at the waist and are brought across the chest in an unhurried motion. Finally point to the offending team by stretching an arm out from the shoulder to the horizontal.