Walt Anderson on controversial timeout: When in doubt, the NFL wants it to be granted

During the first Thanksgiving Day game, a controversial timeout called by Packers coach Matt LaFleur before a false start raised questions. Referee Ron Torbert confirmed that the timeout was recognized and granted before the false start penalty was enforced, resulting in no penalty for the Packers. However, there was uncertainty about whether the timeout was requested before the false start occurred. NFL Officiating & Rules Analyst Walt Anderson explained that while coaches can verbally or visually request a timeout, officials must determine the sequence themselves without the use of instant replay. The NFL's policy is to resolve any doubt in favor of granting the timeout. This suggests the possibility that the timeout may have been requested after the false start, but the league's guidelines prioritize granting the timeout.