Weird camera angles in football telecast

[Tobra]

Watched part of the Clemson v Ohio State game. The preponderance of the images were from an "eye in the sky" view that was just horrible. Difficult to see what was going on, excellent footage of the expression on the cornerback's face that almost got an interception, but I would rather they show me an image that is useful to know that is happening in the game. Guy running from left to right you can tell if he has a first down, not so easy when you are looking down at him and he is running away from you.

Is this a new thing? I never remember seeing it in the past.

[stevej37]

Two wires suspended above the field. Camera moves to any spot wanted. (works like an etch-a-sketch)
They've used them for prob a dozen years now.

[Tobra]

I was aware of those, but have never seen a telecast that used them exclusively. I stopped watching it was so annoying.

[Sooner or later]

ESPN had several choices on how to watch the game.

[Sooner or later]

Options for the National Championship Game

Normal on ESPN

Command Center (ESPNU): A split-screen with simultaneous multiple camera views, which could include the main ESPN camera angle, the SkyCam, High SkyCam, and All-22 among others, and isolated camera feeds of both Clemson head coach Dabo Swinney and Alabama head coach Nick Saban. Enhanced statistics and real time drive charts supplement the game action. The traditional telecast’s call of the game will be part of the presentation.

Sounds of the Game (ESPN Classic): Fans can enjoy the natural sounds of Levi’s Stadium as if they were sitting inside. Fans will watch the ESPN traditional game telecast, sans commentators, and hear the complete pre-game on-field festivities, including band performances, the public address announcer and referee calls. The presentation’s audio will be amplified with dozens of microphones positioned throughout the stadium. Both school’s halftime band performances will also be featured.

DataCenter (Goal Line/ESPN3): On-screen graphic content ranging from analytics, real time drive charts, win probability updates, curated social media reaction and more. ESPN Radio’s call will be part of the presentation.
SkyCam (ESPN3):A continuous feed of the camera that maneuvers above the field of play and often provides a behind-the-offense look at game action.

High SkyCam (ESPN3): Similar to the SkyCam, but several feet higher, offering an alternate view well above the action
All-22 (ESPN3): Watch the game the same way players and coaches study film, with a vantage point high above the field of play. The angle allows for the 22 players on the field to be seen at all times providing the ability to distinguish how plays develop.

Hometown Radio (ESPN3): A partnership with Learfield (Alabama) and JMI Sports (Clemson) pairs the ESPN telecast with the hometown radio call of the two teams. Broadcasters:
Alabama: Eli Gold, John Parker Wilson, Rashad Johnson and Chris Stewart
Clemson: Don Munson, Rodney Williams, Reggie Merriweather and Tim Bourret

[VincentVega]

^ exactly

I got the wrong chanel first, cool to have options. Assuming you know you have options.