If an official is unsure of the initial contact of a block in the back or clipping, what should the ruling be?

The correct ruling in this scenario is that there should be no foul called. The reasoning behind this is rooted in the principle of uncertainty in officiating. When an official is unsure of the nature of the play, particularly regarding specific infractions like a block in the back or clipping, they should refrain from throwing a flag. In football officiating, the idea is to maintain the integrity of the game and avoid making calls that could be described as speculative.

Making a call on a foul that an official is uncertain about could lead to an incorrect penalty assessment, which can significantly impact the game. By choosing to establish no foul in such cases, officials ensure that they only penalize actions that are clear and observable, thus upholding the fairness and accuracy of the game. Other choices like block in the back, chop block, or clipping suggest definitive actions that would require a clear view and understanding of the play, which isn't the case here. Hence, the appropriate decision is to allow the play to continue without imposing a penalty.