Harris Corporation recently teamed with the NFL to provide officials with high definition replays for the upcoming season.

“This is a rare opportunity to leverage cutting-edge technology to improve the integrity of the game,” said Mike Pereira, the NFL’s vice president of officiating. “Our referees will now be able to see images much more clearly, giving reviews in critical situations the level of scrutiny they truly deserve. It’s really a win-win situation for everyone - the coaches, players and the fans.”

Believe me, I love HD! However, as I think about the advantages it offers, I don’t think that the increased clarity will make much difference in the way of instant replay. During the coach/booth challenges, I have never seen a non-HD replay in which I thought to myself, “Whoa, if this was in HD then I’d be able to see what really happened.” Essentially, that is what the NFL is assuming.

The move to HD does have a secondary effect as it shows others that the NFL isn’t a tech-dinosaur. Hopefully this will open the door to other technologies which would really improve the game.

A laser across the first down or goal line to determine if the yardage was actually gained? A clear helmet so players have increased field of vision? Maybe not yet, but the move to HD in the replay booth is a step in the right direction.