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[ Mar 18 ]
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The NFL Selects Wilson as Official Football and Scoreboard as Official Timekeeper in 1970

The Historical Decision of 1970: NFL’s Official Gear

The year 1970 marked a significant moment in the history of American football. The National Football League (NFL), known for its passionate following and exciting matches, made a groundbreaking decision to designate Wilson as the official provider of footballs. This choice underscored the league's commitment to quality and consistency in gameplay. Alongside this, the NFL also recognized a specific scoreboard to serve as the official timekeeper during games, ensuring accurate timing in a sport where every second counts.

Wilson Football: A Legacy of Quality

Wilson Sporting Goods Company has a storied history in producing high-quality sports equipment, and its selection as the official football of the NFL was a natural choice. Founded in 1913, Wilson has been at the forefront of developing sports gear. The company was already well-known for producing the iconic Wilson footballs which many players and fans herald as the best in the game. Their craftsmanship not only enhances the performance on the field but also bears the weight of tradition and excellence.

The Role of the Scoreboard

Alongside Wilson, the designation of a specific scoreboard as the official timekeeper brought an important aspect to NFL games. Accurate time management is critical in football, and having a standardized scoreboard ensured that both players and fans could rely on the same accurate information during matches. This decision led to uniformity in how games were played and viewed, making the experience more enjoyable and easier to follow.

Impact on the Game and Future Directions

The decisions made in 1970 by the NFL had lasting implications for professional football. By selecting Wilson and a designated scoreboard, the NFL solidified its approach to standardizing game equipment and practices. This move not only enhanced the quality of the games but also laid the groundwork for future partnerships between the league and equipment manufacturers.

Standardization of Equipment in the NFL

The emphasis on quality footballs and official timing devices initiated a trend of standardization across the league. This consistency helps ensure that players face the same challenges and opportunities in every match, allowing for fair competition.

Wilson’s Continued Influence in Football

Since 1970, Wilson has continued to be a vital part of the NFL’s identity, producing millions of footballs that grace the hands of professional athletes each season. This long-term partnership is a testament to the quality and reliability of Wilson footballs.

Fun Fact

Did You Know? Wilson’s Special Footballs

Wilson has produced several special edition footballs over the years, including ones celebrating the Super Bowl and other major NFL events. Their craftsmanship continues to exceed expectations, making them the preferred choice of players and coaches alike.

Additional Resources

Recommended Reading on NFL History

If you wish to dive deeper into the history of the NFL and its equipment choices, consider reading "The Big Book of Football Knowledge" and "America's Game: The NFL at 100". These books provide engaging insights into the evolution of the league and its impact on sports culture.