Last night NBC showed off something new for its NFL broadcasts during the preseason matchup between the Arizona Cardinals and the Dallas Cowboys. It’s a graphics package called “The Green Zone” and is used on third downs to show how far a team needs to go to get a first down.
Welcome to the green zone.
On third downs, see just how far players will have to go at any point during the play to get a first down. pic.twitter.com/cCLdkdLjls
— SNF on NBC (@SNFonNBC) August 27, 2018
If you’re thinking to yourself “How is this different from that yellow line?” you are not alone.
The Green Zone has been roundly panned by fans and critics as more unnecessary computer-generated graphics on the field. Some on Twitter compared it to the character Poochie from the Simpsons, who was added to the fictional Itchy and Scratchy Show to improve a product that didn’t need improving.
Colin Cowherd had no problem being the voice of decent. He tweeted that he was a fan of The Green Zone.
I like the Green Zone. Good idea. I’m sure Twitter will react w thoughtful nuance for its debut. #snf
— Colin Cowherd (@ColinCowherd) August 27, 2018
NBC is yet to comment on whether The Green Zone will see life beyond the preseason.
