If you don’t like the two-minute warning in the NFL, be prepared to not like it in college football either. This is one of two major rule changes the NCAA approved for the 2024 season.
The NCAA announced several rule changes Friday to make the college game more like the professional game. In addition to establishing a two-minute warning before each half and end of the game, the NCAA also plans to implement in-helmet communication between sidelines and players. So, just as coaches in the NFL can communicate directly with players with green dots on their helmets, college coaches will be able to communicate with designated players on the field.
Georgia Bulldogs head coach Kirby Smart yells instructions during the second quarter of a game against the Florida State Seminoles at the Capital One Orange Bowl at Hard Rock Stadium on December 30, 2023 in Miami Gardens, Florida. (Megan Briggs/Getty Images)
It may also not be a coincidence that this rule change comes in the wake of Michigan’s sign-stealing scandal last year. The Wolverines were accused of sending advance scouts to their opponent’s upcoming games to steal signs. In-helmet communication clearly renders such systems useless.
Michigan Wolverines head coach Jim Harbaugh watches during the first half against the Purdue Boilermakers at Michigan Stadium on November 4, 2023 in Ann Arbor, Michigan. (Gregory Shams/Getty Images)
Under the new rule changes, college teams will also be able to watch video of games on tablets on the sideline.
