By The Associated Press
An independent athletic trainer stationed in the video replay booth will be on the look-out for players who show visible signs of a concussion during Big Ten football games.
The Big Ten announced Monday that its Council of Presidents/Chancellors approved the move Sunday at a meeting in Indianapolis.
The athletic trainer will have his or her own video monitor and have the ability to directly contact officials on the field. The independent athletic trainer will be in addition to the continued presence of on-field doctors and athletic trainers from each school.
A message seeking details about the new concussion surveillance plan was left at the Big Ten office.
The Big Ten also said it would put greater emphasis on requirements for reporting concussions and disciplinary action for non-compliance.
The moves come after Michigan came under fire for its handling of a head injury sustained by quarterback Shane Morris in September.
Morris was allowed to play after taking a late hit that left him wobbly. Morris, who also had a sprained ankle, stayed in the game for one more play after the big hit. The school said athletic trainers did not test him for a concussion because they didn't see the late hit.
Coach Brady Hoke, who was fired last week, allowed Morris to go back into the game for one play before he was finally tested for a concussion.
Copyright 2014 The Associated Press
