NFL tells Gene Steratore, refs don't use paper as measuring tool for first downs

The NFL has instructed its officials to no longer use paper as a means to measure first downs.

Alberto Riveron, the NFL's head of officials, said Thursday that he told officials that it's not proper protocol.

Riveron's comment comes on the heels of official Gene Steratore using a folded index card during the Dallas Cowboys' 20-17 win over the Oakland Raiders on Sunday night.

Steratore placed the card between the tip of the football and the end of the first-down marker before signaling that the Cowboys had converted a fourth down on their game-winning drive.

"When he did bring out the piece of paper, that was very, very unusual. The last time I saw it done was about four or five years ago, also in an NFL game, and that's not the norm," Riveron told Pro Football Talk. "Gene made the decision strictly on visual affirmation that the ball made the line to gain.

"I will advise them not to use it again. I've already done that."