In this episode of Whistle Talk, host Mike D'Ambrosio engages with coach Tony Shiffman of @HogFBChat and players Joey Spina (2026) and Zach Nina (2025) to delve into the intricacies of football officiating, particularly focusing on the offensive line. The conversation covers various topics including the importance of understanding rules, the challenges faced by offensive linemen, and the nuances of penalties. The guests share their experiences, insights on coaching techniques, and thoughts on potential rule changes that could benefit the game. The episode emphasizes the collaborative relationship between officials and players, aiming to enhance the overall football experience.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Whistle Talk

02:39 Meet the Guests: Coaches and Players

07:28 Understanding Offensive Line Rules

11:38 Exploring Penalties and Techniques

18:17 Defining Holding and Its Implications

30:44 Teaching Techniques in Football

32:31 Understanding Offensive Lineman Rules

36:52 Challenges of Refereeing

39:00 Memorable Penalties and Calls

55:21 Desired Rule Changes for Offensive Linemen

In this episode of Whistle Talk, host Michael D'Ambrosio and Daniel Chamberlain dive deep into the recent high-stakes football games, particularly focusing on the controversial officiating decisions that have sparked heated debates among fans and analysts alike. They discuss the implications of these calls on the outcomes of games, including a pivotal matchup between the Bills and Broncos, where officiating decisions played a significant role in the narrative surrounding the game. The conversation highlights the challenges referees face in making split-second decisions and the impact of social media on public perception of officiating.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Whistle Talk

01:20 Game Predictions and Excitement

06:09 Analyzing the Bills vs Broncos Game

07:49 Controversial Touchdown Discussion

11:51 Interception Analysis and Opinions

20:01 Referee Decisions and Game Management

22:06 Defensive Pass Interference and Roughing the Passer

29:53 Analyzing Key Penalties

31:12 The DPI Controversy

33:08 Unsportsmanlike Conduct Discussion

35:11 Expert Opinions on Officiating

37:51 The Catch Rule Explained

40:06 Trust Issues in the NFL

52:35 The NFL as an Entertainment Business

Summary

In this episode of Whistle Talk, host Michael D'Ambrosio welcomes tax expert Jeff Conrad to discuss the intricacies of tax reporting for football officials. They cover topics such as income reporting, the importance of 1099 forms, allowable deductions, self-employment tax, and the significance of meticulous record-keeping. Jeff shares insights on navigating tax season, avoiding common pitfalls, and understanding the implications of hobby loss rules. The conversation emphasizes the need for officials to stay organized and informed as they prepare for the upcoming season and tax obligations.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Whistle Talk

03:16 Meet Jeff Conrad: The Tax Expert

04:12 Understanding Officiating Income

06:48 Navigating 1099s and Tax Reporting

10:40 Expenses and Deductions for Officials

14:15 Self-Employment Tax and Hobby Loss Rules

20:39 Record Keeping and Audit Preparedness

27:28 Multiple Sports and Deductions

34:54 Home Office Deductions and LLCs

39:31 State vs. Federal Tax Considerations

40:04 Avoiding Gray Areas in Tax Reporting

44:19 Final Thoughts and Recommendations

About Jeff Conrad

Professional:

Tax Partner at FGMK, LLP Licensed attorney and CPA for 30 years

www.fgmk.com

Football Officiating:- Licensed 38 years- 91 playoff games, including 6 state finals- IHSA Football Clinician 20 years- Illinois - 2023 NFHS Football Official of the Year - Southwest Prairie Conference Football Assigner- Athletic Officials Association - football division president & Executive Board Vice President- Joliet Football Officials Association - Board Member- IACO Football Clinic - Past Chairman- Referee Magazine - 2 articles published

In addition, for the last 8 years, I have prepared video based training for all IL associations, and I have assisted Sam Knox with a training video series - Football Focus - you can find on Youtube. I also speak/present at 10 to 12 football clinics each year.