ACC approves helmet communication technology, in-game video access, now awaits NCAA green light

Coach-to-player communication technology would effectively make sign stealing a thing of the past

By Will Backus Feb 14, 2024 at 4:47 pm ET• 1 min read

The ACC has approved two major technological changes that could have a significant impact once the 2024 college football season rolls around. At the league's winter meetings, its coaches unanimously voted in favor of implementing coach-to-player communication for a streamlined and more efficient play-calling operation, along with improved video access (i.e. sideline tablets) for in-game adjustments. 

These changes will not take effect without NCAA approval. The NCAA Football Rules Committee will meet later this month to vote on any potential adjustments to game-day operations, opening the door for the ACC -- and any other conference that decides to follow suit -- to move forward with the changes put forth. 

In particular, in-helmet communication became a buzzworthy topic in light of Michigan's alleged sign-stealing scheme that surfaced during the 2023 season. As a trial run, the NCAA Rules Committee gave teams the option of using coach-to-player helmet communications during bowl season.