I think to some extent referees determining games with calls has always been talked about. I remember being a huge Houston Oilers fan during the Bum Phillips, Earl Campbell era. I still think about the TD catch by Mike Renfro in the championship game against the Steelers in 1979 that was ruled both feet not down and in thus incomplete. The replay showed otherwise, but it was not in effect at the time, and the Steelers continued on and won another Super Bowl. I think people pissed and moaned, but the refs were considered part of the game and mistakes happened. It wasn't fun to accept..... but it was what it was. Replay has brought about a different era for sure. And, the mentality we just want to get it right in a technical sense. I also think your point about the college game is true because to me the rules seem simpler and more straightforward. The NFL has intervened way too much with its rules. I feel like I'm listening to lawyers, and politicians talk when I listen to the NFL folks talk.
LOL! we both typed the Renfro catch at the same time.