When The NFL Changed TV Forever In 1998

In this historic 1998 ESPN broadcast, viewers witnessed the debut of the now-iconic digital yellow first down marker—revolutionizing how football is watched on TV. The video captures the moment this cutting-edge technology hit the screen, subtly overlaying a bright yellow line across the field to show exactly where the offense needed to go. Initially met with curiosity and awe, this simple yet powerful innovation forever changed sports broadcasting by making the game easier to follow and more engaging for fans at home.

WATCH:

The digital yellow first down marker debuting on ESPN (1998) pic.twitter.com/jHEH7g3Hpo

— internet hall of fame (@InternetH0F) May 9, 2025