Alan Amron and Pat Summerall have developed a First Down Laser System that projects a line across the field that is visible in the stadium and on TV. The NFL, being their main target, is intrigued, but not completely sold on the idea... yet. The NFL right now has made it clear that they don't want to eliminate chains, but explained it wasn't a terrible idea. They want physical proof of a first down. League spokesman Greg Aiello said, "We have not been convinced that it would work for us, but we are open to further discussion after the season."
The new technology could be very important to the game of football. A misplaced ball on a first-down measurement could be the difference between a winner and a loser. The use of many cameras and replay technology has made the game more visible to audiences, and fairer on teams. Could lasers be the next step in helping the referees, fans, and players?The only problem I have with the idea, is the fact of spotting the ball. The ball is marked down at a certain spot on the field where the player is tackled. What would happen if the player was tackled before the marker, yet moves the ball ahead? This is why the technology for determining a first down would be inefficient.
The idea of making a visible line for all audiences is alluring though. Since most viewers are accustomed to seeing the yellow first-down line, being at the stadium and viewing it would be a plus.
http://news.msn.com/pop-culture/first-down-line-laser-next-for-nfl
You presented alot of information, it had back up so i thought that was a plus side. I think it is a good idea for the laser so that peole can see the line while sitting at home watching from the screen.
ReplyDeleteI appreciated how much you described everything because I didn't even know those lines weren't there until like three years ago. Hahaha. I also liked how your organized your information. It was really easy to read and understand, so good job!!
ReplyDeleteI really liked how thoroughly you described both sides of the argument. For someone who wasn't a football guru, they could still understand your point and see what you were talking about. I thought it was very well written and a nice piece. (:
ReplyDeleteThis idea is pure genius. I hadn't heard about this invention yet and I am glad you informed us of this. I think maybe the real problem that the NFL has with this invention is the exact measurements. What if they were only short by a few inches? With the chains they can be more lenient. You did a very good jobs presenting the facts and being unbiased.
ReplyDeleteI like how you had the opinions of different sides and why they like it or not. The third paragraph was my favorite. I liked the flow of it.
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