NFL announces closer officiating ties with select college conferences

The NFL announced Thursday that it is forming a closer officiating relationship with select college conferences to improve "the officiating pipeline." The goal is to share NFL mechanics, technology and resources with college partners, expand recruiting opportunities, provide more opportunities for women and minorities and strengthen officials' training. The Big Ten, Conference

NFL ready to break the ‘grass ceiling’ again

Much like any potential official recruit, Sarah Thomas has been on the NFL's watchlist for several years. She is one step closer to becoming the league's first permanent female official, having worn an NFL uniform in a Colts practice. Thomas is part of an apprenticeship program that was formed under the

Gerald Austin to be ‘MNF’ rules analyst

Buried in the fourth quarter of the Monday night game was an announcement of interest to us NFL rules wonks. Play-by-play announcer Mike Tirico on the introduction with analyst Jon Gruden: This gentleman, Gerry Austin, has worked three Super Bowls, two -- as Jon likes to say -- wearing the white