NFL rules experts were on full display during the Divisional Round of the playoffs this weekend.
From Gene Steratore at CBS to Terry McAulay at NBC, several prominent rules experts were asked for their opinion on controversial calls throughout the Divisional Round of the NFL playoffs this weekend.
But do we need these guys?
For the most part, the rules experts just seem to agree with whatever was called on the field. Is there value in having them be part of the broadcast at this point?
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There's a growing push for the networks to get rid of the rules experts, in the wake of this weekend's broadcasts.
"All of the broadcast teams should get rid of their 'rules analysts.' They never go against the on field officials, and their loyalty to the on field officials prevent any of the viewers from learning anything about the rules," one fan wrote.
"This is the problem with the rules analyst as a TV feature. We did NOT need to bring in a rules expert to ask whether the QB got hit in the head here! Bring the guy in when you need to explain something wildly complex. Don't pass the job of commentating off," another fan wrote.
Awful Announcing is arguing that it's time for them to go, too.
But not everyone agrees with the call
There are some who feel like the broadcast is benefited by the rules experts.
"Absolutely ridiculous and frankly, a disrespectful and misplaced take. Rules analysts are a big value add to broadcasts and IMO super important. The main purpose of having them isn’t just as a sounding board for the calls most former pros/pxp’s can explain and handle, it’s for the rare/complex calls/rules that happen in big moments," Stu Holden wrote.
"As a former pro, one of the things I underestimated in broadcasting early, was how familiar I needed to be with the rules of the sport. It took years of seeing different plays, decisions, etc and studying the rules to feel 100% confident and competent. I’ve had so much help from rules analysts in big moments and we don’t always agree on calls, which is totally fine, because there is still subjectivity."
Where do you stand?