The NFL made an unexpected announcement on Friday morning as to an arrangement that could, in theory, spread.

“The NFL and the Big 12 Conference are entering into a new strategic partnership , working side by side on officiating development, global football initiatives, emerging technology, analytics and flag football expansion, with a goal of growing the game for generations to come,” the league announced on social media, via Tom Pelissero of NFL Media.

“The focus on officiating is notable,” Pelissero added. “Big 12 officials will gain access to NFL clinics, weekly teaching tapes and advanced accountability tools. Joint training and evaluation programs will expand, and both organizations will collaborate to identify officials with pro potential.”

And there it is. An effort to impro

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