ootball has to be the most analyzed sport today, with video cameras covering every game — from the 5-year-olds on the sandlot to the NFL. Broadcasters have found new and different camera angles to enhance the viewing experience. Remote cameras are seen suspended above the playing field. One network even placed cameras in the goal line pylons to catch the ball crossing the plane. And, don’t forget: The NFL has a camera on the bill of the umpire cap.

That has made the job of officials even more difficult since now not only can coaches, broadcasters, and fans criticize officials for missing a call (or no-call) during the game; they can view it again and again on recorded video.

In my blog on the BCS Championship Game, the opening kickoff return by Ohio State was noted for the speed of Ted Ginn Jr outrunning the Florida defense. In my opinion (and obviously the opinion of the on-field officials), it was a magnificent job of speed, quickness — a race for the end zone.

The following morning, I turned on John Madden’s radio show and heard Coach talking about the hold that was missed on the opening kickoff. Now, did Coach Madden see the same game that I saw?

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