QB Headsets

[WASU 93]

This is purely speculation from my views of CFB in the first 4 weeks, but I think this rule change is making a HUGE difference for some programs.

Coaches can talk to the QB until 15 seconds remain on the game clock. So, it's not only about calling plays. If the offense gets to the line of scrimmage quickly, the coach can analyze coverages and assist the QB with pre-snap reads.

Not saying that it's the only reason for improvements but:
Cade Klubnik. 2023-- 63.9% completion percentage 6.3 yards per completion. 19 TD's/9 interceptions. QBR 126.3
2024--73.4% completion percentage 9.2 yards per completion. 8 TD's/1 int. QBR 181.8

Some of these huge offensive performances are most likely aided by getting additional input on reads at the line of scrimmage. And, that information is possibly being relayed down from the booth (who can see the defensive alignment from up top) and they can also now use tablets to have video access to previous defensive alignments.

This is certainly not an excuse, but if a team has a former QB like Major Applewhite talking to a young QB at the line of scrimmage (purely speculation, I'm not sure who was on the microphone for USA), it can certainly make the QB's job easier. They still have to execute, but may not have to process all of the reads.

Again, this is no way excuses our defensive performance (or NC State's or UNC's etc.), being out of position, arm tackling, etc. But, some teams may have adapted quicker and may have a better handle on how to use this technology to gain an advantage. And, the talent on the microphone/ability to communicate might be just as important as the talent under center at this point.

Eventually, this will cycle through, but I think some teams are ahead of others with this technology at this point.

[Bigdaddyg1]

If I recall we used to pretty much not use a huddle, go to the line quickly with the first call then routinely our quarterback would look to the sideline for an audible or adjustment. It seemed to work well at times. I had commented on a game thread that we seem to take too long getting to the line thus leaving little to no time to change a play. If we are running to the short side and the defense overloads pre snap we seem to run the play anyway. Someone pointed out that this strategy is by design to keep the defense off the field? With a headset why not call the play quicker and get to the line in time to still use the helmet headset?

[ASUFan4863]

If I recall we used to pretty much not use a huddle, go to the line quickly with the first call then routinely our quarterback would look to the sideline for an audible or adjustment. It seemed to work well at times. I had commented on a game thread that we seem to take too long getting to the line thus leaving little to no time to change a play. If we are running to the short side and the defense overloads pre snap we seem to run the play anyway. Someone pointed out that this strategy is by design to keep the defense off the field? With a headset why not call the play quicker and get to the line in time to still use the helmet headset?

I think it is more so to prevent any attempts of sign stealing and also limit the defensive adjustments late in the play clock. But, to your point what if we need to make an adjustment? There are plusses and minuses to both but I agree we should be getting to the line w/20ish seconds preferably.