Steve Marlowe is a name that resonates with football fans, especially those who follow college football
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. As a referee in the Southeastern Conference (SEC), Marlowe has officiated some of the most high-stakes games in college football
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. His journey to becoming a prominent figure in the world of football officiating is as fascinating as it is inspiring.
Marlowe’s love for football began in high school at Hewitt-Trussville, where he played as a senior
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. However, he quickly realized that his future in football might not be as a player
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. Inspired by the “IBM Presents: You Make the Call” segment on Monday Night Football, Marlowe decided that he wanted to be an official
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. This decision set him on a path that would see him become a respected referee in one of the most competitive conferences in college football
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Before joining the SEC, Marlowe worked as an office manager for Alabama Power
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. Despite his full-time job, he continued to officiate football games on weekends, driven by his passion for the sport
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. His dedication paid off in 2015 when he was hired as a full-time official for the SEC
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. Marlowe’s role as a center judge—a position created by the SEC in 2014—requires him to spot the ball and set it in position for the next play
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. This role demands not only a keen eye but also quick reflexes and a deep understanding of the game
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Marlowe’s officiating career has seen him work in numerous high-profile games, including the SEC Championship Game and the College Football Playoff quarterfinal Fiesta Bowl
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. His performance in these games has earned him a reputation as a reliable and fair referee
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. Marlowe’s commitment to his role is evident in his rigorous training regimen. He runs 1.5 miles three days a week, works out regularly, and competes in occasional 5K races to stay in shape
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. Additionally, he attends clinics each spring and summer to stay updated on rule changes and to undergo physical assessments
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One of the most notable moments in Marlowe’s career came during the 2025 College Football Playoff National Championship game between Ohio State and Notre Dame
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. As the head referee, Marlowe and his crew officiated the game, which was held at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta
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. The game was
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