College football has implemented a new rule this season, sparking a heated debate not over the rule itself, but over what to actually call it.
Is it the “two-minute timeout” or the “two-minute warning”?
The name of this stoppage at the two-minute mark of the second and fourth quarters in college football has become a topic of discussion, with even TV announcers poking fun at the different terms compared to the NFL’s long-standing use of “warning.”
ESPN’s Rece Davis even mentioned during a broadcast that they have been asked not to refer to it as a warning, further adding to the confusion.
Then, during the NFL season opener, NBC’s Mike Tirico highlighted the distinction again, emphasizing the difference between the two leagues.
But why all the fuss over a name? And could it potentially change in the future?
The original “two-minute warning” in the NFL dates back to 1942, serving as a literal alert to teams when there were two minutes left in each half. College football never adopted this practice.
When the NCAA rules committee considered adding a two-minute stoppage, they consciously chose to name it a “two-minute timeout” instead of a warning, as the clock is visible, rendering the warning unnecessary.
Despite the committee’s rationale, the naming choice has sparked some confusion and light-hearted banter among fans and commentators alike.
Interestingly, the term “two-minute warning” was used in the video game EA Sports College Football 25, adding to the mixed terminology swirling around this rule change.
While Shaw and the committee stand by their decision, some coaches and administrators advocate for aligning with the NFL’s terminology for consistency and familiarity.
Regardless of the name, the rule appears to be functioning as intended, with minimal impact on game times and a streamlined approach to TV timeouts towards the end of halves.
As college football continues to evolve its rules, the debate over what to call this particular stoppage serves as a quirky reminder of the intricacies of the game.
So next time you’re in the TV booth calling a game, make sure you use the right term.
(Photo: Michael Hickey / Getty Images)
