This so called "Timeout" Fad

[Nightman]

It would be different if it wasn't for the fact that a NEW rule is what's perpetrating and allowing this fad. It's not like this is just the way it is and has always been.

Not letting the coach call the timeout in that situation would not prevent a player from doing so, but in that case, everyone on the field, in the stands, and at home sees it and realizes the play is dead. Letting the coach call the TO quietly in the ref's ear to purposely let the ball be snapped first is bad for the game. This will be changed.

Exactly. They changed the rules to let coaches call timeouts a couple years ago. This one of the unexpected consequences. I still think only players should be allowed to call timeouts.

And you can't call a TO in basketball once the player shooting a free throw is handed the ball and in baseball the ump doesn't have to give time to a batter if he asks too late.