US EditionEnd of the Chain Gang? NFL Adopts Virtual Measurement System
STARK COUNTY, OHIO, AUG 1 – Sony's Hawk-Eye system uses six 8K cameras to speed up first down measurements and reduce manual errors, saving up to 40 seconds per measurement, the NFL said.
- On July 31, 2025, the NFL debuted a virtual first down measurement system using Sony's Hawk-Eye technology at the Hall of Fame game in Ohio.
- The NFL introduced this system after extensive testing last season and following controversy over a close first down call against Josh Allen in last year's AFC championship.
- The new technology employs six 8K cameras to determine the ball's location and delivers results in approximately 30 seconds, taking over as the main method instead of manual chain measurements.
- Fans reacted with mixed opinions including “RIP chain gang” and “A year too late,” while the NFL affirmed the chain gang remains a secondary option at games this season.
- This technology aims to speed up officiating, reduce controversial measurements, and become a regular part of the 2025 viewing experience in the NFL.
28 Articles
28 Articles
ABC FOX Montana
End of the chain gang? NFL adopts virtual measurement system
The NFL introduced a virtual measurement system for determining first downs in the season's first pre-season game and it could lead to the end of the "chain gang" on the sidelines.
"All this because Josh Allen couldn't convert": NFL fans react to virtual measurement system for 1st downs taking over chain gang
The NFL used its new virtual measurement system technology to check the line to gain at the Pro Football Hall of Fame game between the LA Chargers and Detroit Lions on Thursday.
NFL debuts new technology at Hall of Fame game — and fans are worried
The NFL debuted brand new technology Thursday night at the Hall of Fame game between the Chargers and Lions in Canton, Ohio. Instead of relying only on chains, the NFL will use new Hawkeye technology to measure the ball.
The NFL Is Taking Jobs Away From Good, Honest Chain Gang Workers With Their New Virtual 1st Down Measurement System
We are living through a truly abysmal time economically speaking. If you want to go out and get some lunch, it's literally impossible to spend anything less than $20. You need a few things from the gr...
NFL fans demand 'bring back the chain gang' after controversial tech is unveiled
NFL fans got their first glimpse at the future of first-down calling Thursday night. And they immediately demanded “bring back the chain gang.” ReutersThe NFL debuted a new way of measuring first downs this week[/caption] GettyThe chain gang used to be called on to determine whether a first down had been reached[/caption] The virtual measurement system was used for the first time ThursdayNFL / NBC Introducing the new virtual measurement system f…
Coverage Details
Bias Distribution
- 59% of the sources are Center
Factuality
To view factuality data please Upgrade to Premium
