Checking the chains for show?

[ThomasM]

One thing I have noticed this year is they rarely ever stop gameplay to bring out the chains. I have seen so many close calls just waived forward as a first down that it got me thinking. Have they made a decision to just give first downs if it's close in order to keep the chains from coming out, and keeping gameplay fluid?

When they brought the chains out for the Florida 4th down measurement, it was absurd. The ball had to get to the 30 yard line to be a first down. I mean exactly on the line. In what universe is the chain needed when you can clearly see the ball is nowhere near the line? Was that just for added drama? It just felt really weird to me seeing them measure when it was obvious the ball wasn't near the line. Especially when they just don't bring the chains out much anymore.

 

[edge]

I think if close enough the coach has the right to request it, obvious or not.

 

[ThomasM]

I think if close enough the coach has the right to request it, obvious or not.

Maybe, but it just seemed weird when the line to gain was literally a line on the field, you know?

I guess I'm the only one noticing the lack of chain use, and so many more line officials waving the chains forward on spots that are, well, spotty.