PAC-12's Coordinator of Football Officiating resigns from post

The competency of the PAC-12's football officials has come into question in recent weeks, and perhaps in a related move or just mere coincidence, Tony Corrente, the league's Coordinator of Football Officiating, resigned from his position on Tuesday due to personal and professional reasons.

PAC-12 Commissioner Larry Scott has appointed Jim Blackwood as interim coordinator, the Conference announced.

“Under Tony’s leadership, our program made great strides in improving the quality, accountability, and consistency," said Scott.  "While it’s unfortunate that Tony has decided to leave us at this time, I want to express my appreciation for his contribution, and for leaving our officiating program strong and headed in the right direction.”

The league has seen several controversial incidents this season, including a bizarre exchange with USC head coach Steve Sarkisian during the Trojans game at Stanford.  Sarkisian's argument prompted USC Athletic Director Pat Haden to come sprinting down to the field to confront the officials personally.

More recently, Colorado coach Mike MacIntyre chased after the officials to protest their calls following the Buffaloes loss to Oregon State.  MacIntyre was subsequently punished by the PAC-12 for his conduct.

This is the second high-profile PAC-12 officiating resignation in less than two years, as Ed Rush, Coordinator of Men’s Basketball Officiating, quit his post in 2013 following his controversial comments about Arizona head coach Sean Miller.

As for Blackwood, he will serve as interim coordinator for the remainder of the season, after which the PAC-12 will begin a search for a permanent replacement.

Blackwood's officiating career includes more than two decades as a college conference coordinator, and 10 years as an NFL instant replay official. He was previously serving as the Instant Replay Supervisor under Corrente. Blackwood will work closely with Pac-12 Command Center Supervisor Rich Rose and the seven other position Supervisors, and will report to Pac-12 head of football Woodie Dixon.

By Staff of TheDailySportsHerald.com and news services