College football is adopting technology long adopted by the NFL and even the high school game. Helmet communication and side-side tablet use in FBS will be allowed starting next season, reports Chris Vannini of The Athletic.
The additions were approved by the NCAA Playing Rules Oversight Panel on Friday. Sideline communication with a helmet worn by a quarterback and a player on defense was tested by several teams during bowl games last season, as well as tablets used by coaching staffs.
One more change approved for next season will be to add a two-minute warning at the end of the second and fourth quarters during games, incorporating an element that previously distinguished college football gameplay from the NFL.
The intention behind adding the two-minute warning is to avoid consecutive TV breaks during game broadcasts. (However, it will not be considered a timeout for the media.) The brief intermission will also allow the officials to switch to the rules that apply during the final two minutes of the half, including stopping the clock after first downs and plays out. field.
The use of communication devices in helmets received additional attention last season amid the sign-stealing controversy involving Michigan, in which scouts allegedly attended off-campus games to obtain sideline signals from opposing teams.
While many coaches, players and fans criticized the Wolverines for breaking the rules, several observers noted that such tactics — or sideline signals — wouldn’t be necessary if coaches could communicate directly with a player with a device. Nebraska coach Matt Rhule was one of those who pointed out that high school teams were allowed to use these devices, along with tablets, while college football teams were not.
Sideline tablets will be able to use video from the broadcast feed or angles from the sideline and end zone. However, tablets will not be able to embed data or communications with the video.
Communications will be turned off with 15 seconds remaining on the play clock or when the ball is snapped. If one team’s communications don’t work, both teams won’t be able to use the devices.
Adding the technology was not a response to Michigan’s allegations, according to Atlético. Side signals and the opponents who steal them are expected to still be part of the game, with teams executing quick, unhuddle attacks. One team may use helmet communications during a game, even if the other chooses not to.
Tech additions will be used by FBS teams, but not coaches and players at FCS level. FCS conferences will have to submit proposals for such changes by June 15.
