[Taylor]

I'm thoroughly confused by all of this. We know that FIRST has trouble handling big server loads. Game Manual on kickoff day. FIRST Choice. Chairman's due date. It's been well-documented that these are common problems, and we need to be proactive to mitigate the repercussions.
Besides, it's like Carolyn_Grace said, the site was up and running and accessible at the time of the deadline. So, no, it's not analogous to the government shutdown or a sub who wouldn't accept work. Because when FIRST said it was due, they took it.

Having said this, I agree the system needs work. It's not acceptable. But it happens.

Logistically, let's look at the situation. If FIRST had given an extension, they likely would not have had time to properly process the Dean's List nominations before Week 1 events. So even if they really really wanted to, I suspect in this case, their hands were tied.