Expert: Thom Brooks - 4/2/2010

Question
I seem to remember watching football a long time ago and the play clock (the 25 second clock used for delay of game) wasn't used. I was wondering when the "delay of game" rule was introduced. Has it always been there but the clock wasn't displayed in the 1970's on TV?

Answer
Eric, hello!

My internet with Comcast has been offline for 5 days so I apologize for their delay.  Their 3rd technician is coming out today to finish some external line problem they've been having.

It started in the 1960's, early 1970's.  They've had changes in times and levels of football over the years, going to 25 seconds when the Referee gives the Ready for Play whistle, then 45 from the end of the play, so who knows what they'll do next!  When I call games for the kids under 13, it is sad to watch the coaches eat up so much time trying to get the youngsters set, informed and ready to snap the ball, especially on a running clock in the youth games.  Officials became reluctant to throw a flag because it slowed down the game, caused Fan Apathy, and generally ticked off everyone in the stadium.  Delay of Game rule can also be called where time was not a factor, as in a player intentionally trying to stale the game or to stop the clock or Unsportsmanlike play.


Take Care,

Thom Brooks
www.BrooksInsuranceSchool.com
Savannah Adult Baseball League

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REFEREE, the Magazine for Sports Officials


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