Instant Replay Coming to an Arena Game Near you

By: Jerome Cusson

From the Arena Football League:

BOARD OF DIRECTORS APPROVE INSTANT REPLAY FOR 2008 PLAYOFFS

The Arena Football League’s Board of Directors today unanimously approved the use of instant replay as an officiating tool for the 2008 playoffs. It marks the first time in the AFL’s 22-season history that instant replay will be used. 

 “The coach’s ability to challenge a call on the field that could ultimately decide the outcome of a game is not only great for the game, but is also great for the fans,” said Dallas Desperados Chief Operating Officer SHY ANDERSON, who also serves as Chairman of the AFL Rules and Competition Committee. “We are able to make this happen because of the great partnership that we have with the leader in sports broadcasting – ESPN. We are extremely proud that the AFL continues to improve its game for the fans where possible.” 
 

Each coach will have a total of two (2) challenges per game that can be used at anytime during regulation. An additional challenge will be granted if the game requires overtime. Challenges remaining from regulation will not “roll over” into overtime. 

Coaches will be equipped with a red “challenge” flag to be thrown on the field to alert officials that they wish to challenge a play. No play may be challenged after the ensuing play has begun. 

Reviewable plays include: scoring, change of possession, fan interference and, at the referee’s discretion, game administration. 

Once a review begins, the referee will have 90 seconds to determine whether the call on the field will be upheld or if there is “indisputable visual evidence” to overturn it. 

Use of instant replay will be conducted throughout the playoffs beginning on Friday, June 27 and culminating with ArenaBowl XXII on Sunday, July 27.

My Reaction: Considering how horrific the officiating in this league is, I applaud the AFL for this decisions. This is something that absolutely needs to be done so at least some of the bad calls can be changed around to the correct one. It’s also interesting that instant replay will begin in the postseason. This is likely a test run before they ratify it just in time for the 2009 regular season. Whatever it takes to get the call right is okay by me.  Now if only Major League Baseball would join the 21st century and apply replay for certain plays as well.

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Jerome Cusson is a proud graduate of Columbia College Chicago. Currently, he is a freelance writer and a contributer to such websites as The Cool Kids' Table and giveawaytheending.com. Check out his NSR blog as well.

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