New NCAA coordinator of officials J.D. Collins is “cautiously optimistic” six weeks into the season that the impact of the new rule changes, and a more free-flowing game, will sustain itself through conference play.
Statistics, obtained by ESPN through Sunday’s games, show that scoring has increased more than five points from this time a year ago — while fouls have increased .89 per game. Points per possession have also increased slightly — from 1.03 to 1.04.
The big carrot for officials? Well, this:
“This is the carrot I hold,” Collins admitted. “I hate when it comes out of my mouth, and I don’t want to say it in an arrogant way. But if you refuse to officiate with the new directives, I can refuse to use you.”
Collins said this is still just the start of an ongoing process intended to make the game more pleasing to everyone.
“We all want the game to be better, to look better and feel better,” Collins said. “The key is we need to make progress each year. We can’t have slippage in January or February this year.”
“As I continue to say, I’m cautiously optimistic,” Collins said. “The reason I say that is because there are so many variables. Conference play is starting, and we have to do our part. I’m optimistic, but I’m a realist, too.”
