How to Figure out the New Instant Replay System

The NFL has reintroduced an instant replay system for the 1999 season, and it is somewhat complicated. Here is a primer for viewers on how it works.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Televisions

1. Understand that coaches can challenge a referee's call and ask officials to review the television instant replay.
2. Note that each time the coach requests a challenge, that team will be assessed a time-out. If the challenge is upheld and the officials reverse their original call, then the team will have that time-out restored.
3. Be aware that once a challenge is issued, the referee announces to the crowd that a "referee replay review" has been requested. The referee will then go to a television screen and take up to 90 seconds to review all possible replays in succession.
4. Understand that the official can only rule on possession and position. Did a player catch a pass or cross the goal line? Were a receiver's feet in bounds?
5. Note that in the final two minutes of each half or in overtime, reviews can only take place if the replay assistant, who sits in the press box and monitors the network broadcast of the game, determines that a play needs review. In those cases, the replay assistant will contact the referee by a beeper.

Tips & Warnings

• Coaches can only challenge a referee's call a maximum of two times per game, and only prior to the final two minutes of each half. There is no limit to the number of reviews that the replay assistant can call.
• This system is fraught with the potential for misunderstandings. It will take weeks to work out the logistics, and the technology is still in its infancy. Reviews may well be one of the most interesting parts of the early season.