cover image Impartial Judgment: The ""Dean of NFL Referees"" Calls Pro Football as He Sees It

Impartial Judgment: The ""Dean of NFL Referees"" Calls Pro Football as He Sees It

Jim Tunney. Franklin Watts, $0 (263pp) ISBN 978-0-531-15095-5

A pro football official since 1960, Tunney has had the longest tenure of any NFL referee. Like many such officials, he began by monitoring high school games, moved up to college contests and was finally tapped for the pros. With the help of freelance writer Dickey, he presents interesting portraits of coaches Vince Lombardi and John Madden, obviously his particular favorites, and players Merlin Olsen, Joe Namath, Roger Staubach and Johnny Unitas, all of whom he respects. Sections included here on the rules and on the adoption of the instant replay system, however, are too specialized even for fans. Nonetheless, this former educator has many valuable suggestions for young players of any sport. Photos not seen by PW. 35,000 first printing; $40,000 ad/promo; author tour. (September)