On Tuesday, The NCAA Playing Rules Oversight Panel agreed to let coaches use electronic devices. This means that coaches can now use tablets and laptops while in the locker room or press box. However, such technology will be prohibited for use on the field or sideline. This is a big step for the NCAA, as technology was previously only acceptable for medical reasons only.
“It’s inevitable that somewhere down the line we will move to allow technology, even on the sideline,” said Steve Shaw, the SEC’s director of officials. “It’s inevitable. It’s part of everything we do now, but whether it is ready now, I just don’t know.”
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With the proposal being passed, teams will be able to start using the equipment during spring scrimmages in April. Thanks to the approval, coaches and staff will be able to look at video to see different plays and formations. The term “halftime adjustment” has a whole new meaning to it now.
The NFL has had this technological equipment since 2013 thanks to a five-year, $400 million dollar deal with Microsoft. “I would tell you that it’s helped at our level,” said Rick Smith, general manager of the Houston Texans. “The way of the world now, technology is just exploding and certainly look at our sidelines and you see examples of how we are using it on our game.”
The NCAA will face issues such as, logistics, money, and equal access due to different conference regulations and so forth. But this is a great step for the organization to make their coaches smarter and better equipped to coach their athletes.