What should occur if a coach realizes an obstruction award was misapplied after both teams have left the field?

When a coach realizes that an obstruction award was misapplied after both teams have left the field, the appropriate course of action is that a protest is no longer valid once the umpires have left the field. This is consistent with the rules and protocols in many sports, which often stipulate that for a protest to be considered, it typically must be lodged at the time of the incident and before the game concludes. Once the game is officially over, which is signified by the departure of the umpires from the field, the game is considered finalized, and no further protests or appeals can be made regarding situations that occurred during the game.

This ensures clarity and finality in game outcomes, as it would be impractical for teams to continue revisiting decisions after the conclusion of the contest. The other options imply potential avenues for protest or appeal that do not align with established protocols, thus reinforcing the understanding that the authority of the umpires and the finality of the game are both upheld.