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The NFL: 16 ways the game has changed in the Super Bowl era

Forty-seven years after the first Super Bowl was played in Los Angeles before a less-than-capacity crowd, let’s look back at some of the ways the NFL has changed.

6. Oversize wrist/arm bands used by quarterbacks in calling plays

  • By Ross Atkin Staff writer

These wristbands, which are like portable playbooks, have evolved quickly in recent years to the point where they seem to cover a significant part of a quarterback’s nonthrowing forearm. A Velcro-ed flap means that QB’s can conceal the list of plays after breaking the huddle. This is a low-budget way, beyond helmet-equipped radio receivers, of helping the field generals deal with all the mental demands of complex offenses.

Some credit Brett Favre with kick-starting the use of these “crib sheets.” But their history might actually date to 1965, when Baltimore Colts running back Tom Matte was pressed into service at quarterback after the team’s regular quarterbacks, Johnny Unitas and Gary Cuozzo, were injured and unable to play late in the season. Coach Don Shula had a basic list of plays printed on a wristband for Matte to refer to. The wristband is now in the Pro Football Hall of Fame.

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Mark Sappenfield
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