NFL Stadiums Will Show Fans Exactly What Officials See Under The Hood

When coaches were given the right to challenge calls during NFL games back in ’99, the major criticism was that it would slow down the game and be unbearable to watch on television. More than a decade later, that worry has proven to be baseless. In fact, there are few moments more exciting in a football game than the seconds in which the official walks from the booth to the center of the field after an extremely close call. The television broadcast teams always do a nice job of showing fans different angles, but now, those inside the arena will be gifted an even better vantage point.

Starting this season, all stadiums will simulcast the lead official’s under the hood footage on the scoreboard, thus allowing fans to see the exact angles being used to formulate the ultimate decision while the man in charge is watching them. According to ESPN, league executives are convinced this is yet another example of the NFL responding to what fans wanted. Prior to today’s announcement, I’d never thought about the simulcast idea, but because of its awesomeness, I’m already excited.

In addition to the new experience for fans, the officials themselves will also be forced to adjust a bit this season as all turnovers will now be verified by the replay booth. This should ensure no one gets cheated whether they have challenges remaining or not.