On SBnation.com, Adam Stites wrote "There are seven observable symptoms used to identify players with concussions. Those are:
Any loss of consciousness
Slow to get up following a hit to the head ("hit to the head" may include secondary contact with the playing surface)
Motor coordination/balance problems (stumbles, trips/falls, slow/labored movement)
Blank or vacant look
Disorientation (e.g., unsure of where he is on the field or location of bench)
Clutching of head after contact
Visible facial injury in combination with any of the above
When spotters or other medical personnel see those signs, that’s when the protocol goes into effect." So basically, if a player gets hit hard these symptoms will help identify if the player has a concussion.
The actual protocol is:
If a player gets hit hard in the head, he will be removed from on the field immediately. Then the player, the neurotrauma consultant, and the medical staff go into the injury booth and review the play. Also, the player will take a short assessment to see if the player has a concussion. If the player has a concussion, he will go to the locker room to take the full assessment. If the player doesn't have a concussion the player will be monitored throughout the game. Amari Cooper, Doug Martin, and Luke Wilson are all players that failed the protocol in week 12. (November 23-27) There were more than 8 concussions in the duration of that week. The protocol has possibly saved these players from long term head injuries.
Have fun playing football, but stay safe!