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ESPN announces SEC Network has hired former league official as officiating analyst for coming season
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The Southeastern Conference is doing everything it can to help fans understand the calls on the field this season.
In addition to starting an official SEC Officiating Twitter account to help provide fans with a better understanding of rules and calls made on the field next season, ESPN has now hired an officiating analyst to serve in the studio and help with broadcasts this season.
Former official Matt Austin, who has 15 years of SEC officiating experience, has been hired as the SEC Network’s first officiating analyst.
“Gaining clarity of the rules has become a vital part of the viewing experience,” said ESPN senior vice president of production Lee Fitting said via statement. “With that understanding, and in working with the SEC and their commitment to transparency in officiating, we looked to enhance and evolve that aspect of our telecasts. Matt Austin is one of the most respected on-field officials in the game, and we look forward to him serving viewers with the same knowledge and passion he utilized throughout his officiating career. He makes us better in this newly-created role.”
Austin was available to serve in this role after announcing his retirement from officiating following the conclusion of the 2018 college football season.
A graduate of the University of Tennessee, Michael Wayne Bratton oversees the news coverage for Saturday Down South. Michael previously worked for FOX Sports and NFL.com
