B1G to Use 8 Officials for Football Games

[Mavric]

Big Ten athletic directors this week approved the increase of football officiating crews from seven members to eight for all home games beginning with the 2014 season. A center judge, who will line up in the offensive backfield opposite the head referee, will serve as the eighth official.

The Big 12 first implemented eight-person officiating crews last season and will do again in 2014. The SEC will use similar crews this season, and the ACC also approved the increase this week.

The NCAA football rules committee has allowed each FBS conference to increase their crews if they want. The last increase, from six to seven members, took place in 1983.

"We're looking for improved officiating -- that's the No. 1 reason," Big Ten coordinator of football officials Bill Carollo told ESPN.com. "We feel the eighth man can help that. It helps with quality, more accuracy and there's probably a few plays we're missing because of some blind spots, some gaps on the field with coverage."

 

The Big Ten also will adopt wireless headsets for officials so they can improve communication on items like player substitution and relay rulings to coaches in a more timely manner. The SEC adopted headset communication in 2012.

 

ESPN

[Abdullah the Butcher]

So more penalties per game....wonderful.

[mrandyk]

So more penalties per game....wonderful.

Really the only impact I can see this having.

[strigori]

Maybe we can get a holding call against an opponent this year!

[Mavric]

Maybe we can get a holding call against an opponent this year!

That would be a change...

[Hooked on Huskers]

So more penalties per game....wonderful.

 

Ref's opportunities - now hiring in B1G zebra herds. Already hired Greg Burks and his cronies .

 

argues with Referee Greg Burks and Head Linesman (NU vs. A&M game)