During the offseason, the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) voted unanimously to use technology for the 2024 football season, and Virginia Tech quarterback Kyron Draughns is very happy with the new additions. The new technology additions will allow in-game video access from the sidelines, allowing teams to make adjustments during the game on tablets, as well as in-helmet coach-player communication, allowing one-way communication between the sideline and players on the field.
The new helmet additions will allow for pre-play communication between players and coaches in a manner similar to what is currently used in the NFL, with the devices turning off 15 seconds before the end of a play. Only select players will have access to the feature, which will be indicated by a green dot on their helmets. Additionally, along with the helmets, each NCAA FBS team will be allowed 18 tablets for in-game replays and exclusive broadcast angles. However, as ESPN’s Andrea Adelson noted, some schools are skeptical.
“The NFL uses both helmet and tablet technology.
It has been a long-standing favorite in college games,
There was some resistance due to the costs involved,
Especially among schools outside the Power 5.
The price is about $40,000.”
Drones shared his thoughts on the implementation of the new in-helmet communications features at the ACC Football Kickoff in Charlotte, North Carolina:
“I really like it. We’ve been working on it all spring, especially communicating through the helmet. It gives us an opportunity to call plays and see the defense without having to look at the sideline. We’re happy to have it in our backs this year and are excited to use it throughout the season.”
The ACC is in discussions with its Football Rules Committee on rules and policies for the new feature, and each school’s legal team would need to approve the use of the helmet technology, as it could void helmet warranties.
Draughns finished last season with 2,084 yards, 17 touchdowns and just three interceptions as a first-time starter. He finished with five touchdowns as a rusher and 818 yards on the ground and went 3-2 with a final record of 7-6 and 5-3 in ACC play. With that being said, it will be interesting to see how much of a difference the new technology makes for Draughns and the Hokies.
