Total Pro Sports
The NFL debuted its new “Virtual Measurement System” during Thursday night’s Hall of Fame game between the Detroit Lions and Los Angeles Chargers.
The league looks set to replace the traditional “chain gang” and employs Sony’s Hawk-Eye technology, with six 8K cameras strategically placed around the stadium to track the placement of the football.
The tech was unveiled in the second quarter of the game after Lions running back Craig Reynolds went on a 10-yard run. Instead of calling for the chain gang, the officials surprised viewers with a virtual overlay of the area on the field to confirm the first down.
While the league plans to use the new Virtual Measurement System during the season, the chains will stick around as backup. The new system will be the go-to for such situations moving forward, and the chain gang will remain on standby for emergencies.
The tech’s introduction was largely praised, although some fans already expect it to cause controversy. Others seem to prefer the drama that comes with the old way.
“Oh boy this is gonna be controversial,” someone wrote in the comments.
Oh boy this is gonna be controversial
— X (@fau1in) August 1, 2025
“All the great tech and automated calls will give fans less to complain about or to justify the big losses. We’ll be left with an emptiness in our soul…but a few better calls,” said a second.
All the great tech and automated calls will give fans less to complain about or to justify the big losses.
We'll be left with an emptiness in our soul…
…but a few better calls.— Sean Nienow (@SNienow) August 1, 2025
“The real question is, can the NFL manipulate it?” asked a third.
The real question is, can the NFL manipulate it?
— alohabet_s (@alohabet_s) August 1, 2025
“Tennis has been using similar tech for yrs. What took so long?” someone else asked.
Tennis has been using similar tech for yrs
What took so long?
— gretz (@gretz4thewin) August 1, 2025
“why don’t i trust this and want to go back to the old way?🤔” a user wondered.
why don't i trust this and want to go back to the old way?🤔
— DeFi-Blaze (@DeFi_Blaze) August 1, 2025
“Can’t wait to see this be used in the Chiefs favor,” another quipped.
Can’t wait to see this be used in the Chiefs favor
— Clem (@AC__32) August 1, 2025
On another note, the Chargers picked up a 34-7 win over Detroit on the night, with quarterback Trey Lance throwing 13-of-20 for 120 yards and two touchdowns.
