As the 2024 Florida Football season begins, the NCAA has introduced several new rules that fans should be aware of. These rules, which can often be technical and complex, have been broken down for easier understanding.
**Coach-to-Player Communications:** Coaches in the Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS) can now communicate with one player on the field via a helmet receiver. However, only one player per team can wear the communication-enabled helmet, marked by a green dot, and communication will cease when the play clock hits 15 seconds or the ball is snapped.
**Tablets for In-Game Video:** Coaches across all football divisions can now use standard tablets for in-game video review, but these tablets can only display footage from the current game and cannot access analytics or other data.
**Wearable Technologies:** The NCAA has approved the use of wearable technology for certain Division III conferences, allowing teams to experiment with new tech.
**Two-Minute Timeout:** A new rule introduces a two-minute warning in the second and fourth quarters, similar to the NFL.
**First Down Timing Rules:** In Division III games, the clock will no longer stop for a first down, aligning the rule with Division I and II standards.
**Collaborative Replay:** Conferences can now implement an off-site replay review system as an option during games.
**Horse-Collar Tackle:** Horse-collar tackles within the tackle box will now be penalized, ensuring player safety.
**Replay – Halftime Intermission:** Once the first half ends and the referee has cleared the final play, no further replay reviews can occur, except for targeting reviews in games without instant replay.
**Players Numbering:** Players must report to the referee if they enter the game wearing a number different from the one on the game day roster.
**Prohibited Field Equipment:** Updates have been made regarding coach interviews, camera access, and the behavior of videographers and ball personnel during games.
**Penalty Enforcement after Replay Review:** New language clarifies penalty enforcement after replay reviews, especially concerning dead ball and loose ball situations.
These rule changes are designed to streamline the game and ensure clarity in various game situations.
