Is it just me, or does the chain method of measuring for first downs in football seem rather outdated? Measuring sure wastes a lot of time. And how precise is it, really? When they drag the chains all the way across the field, I'm sure the measurement is going to be off by at least a few inches. Since it's now the 21st century, I propose that we update the practice.
One thing we could do, potentially, is put some sort of laser at the first down marker, and shoot a beam across the field when a measurement is needed. If the ball breaks the beam, it's a first down. This would take no time at all.
Another idea would be to put some kind of chip in one of the tips of the ball. When a measurement is needed, the ball would be turned so that tip is facing forward. Some kind of device could be placed at the first down line that could tell if the chip in the ball was crossing the line. This would also be handy in sideline or goal line situations.
Football is a popular, big-money sport. I say the NFL and the NCAA should put some of that money into first-down measurement technology.
i like the drama the chains bring, craig. what we need in football is more drama. like the challenge last night that resulted in the football being moved back, but it was still a first down.
ReplyDeletethe pack really blew it last night.