Quick rulebook fix would remove all doubt as to whether a timeout was called

During the Packers-Lions game, a controversial timeout call occurred in the second quarter. The Green Bay Packers, leading 10-7, faced a critical fourth-and-one situation from the Lions' two-yard line. A potential false start by Packers' right guard Anthony Belton could have pushed the team back, possibly leading them to attempt a field goal. However, no penalty was enforced as referee Ron Torbert announced that Packers coach Matt LaFleur had called a timeout before the false start. This decision allowed the Packers to successfully score a touchdown on the subsequent play. Torbert confirmed, after discussions on the field, that the timeout was recognized before the false start occurred. The incident highlights the need for clearer rules regarding the granting of timeouts, suggesting that a visual timeout signal should accompany verbal requests to prevent future confusion.