They are very aware we are starting the clock as the ball is being rotated back in. It's pretty clear the R is winding it and some at the NCAA level will actually give it a quick tweet (Alf would LOVE that). They also recognize we are more precise when time is critical late in a half. This isn't something that's hidden or that subtle. This is the RIGHT thing in the sense it is what is taught and understood by the coaches, players, officials and ECOs. It's not something the officials have decided to do and hope nobody notices.
WHAT EXACTLY is "the RIGHT thing"? EVERYTIME in EVERYGAME when the clock stops WE signal both visually & by AUDIBLE SIGNAL. It's not a big deal, just a logical, rational, practical accommodation to let EVERYBODY aware of WHAT just happened and WHEN.
Believe it, or not, at EVERY level
(BUT, more likely at the Interscholastic level) unanticipated distractions occur that might occupy a coach's, or player's (or even a field OFFICIAL'S) attention away from WATCHING the "ball being placed", and a simple RFP whistle acknowledges EVERYTHING is back on and RFP (including the ball being placed and the Umpire set to go) and game action can proceed.
Again, not a BIG DEAL, but a simple, consistent, effective practice that has helped avoid unnecessary confusion for GENERATIONS, has been a simple universally understood RFP whistle. The original question remains unanswered, WHAT, if any, benefit (compelling or otherwise) did eliminating this accomplish?
Especially as regards Football levels, considering their unique & different PRIMARY objectives "One size will NEVER (AUTOMATICALLY) fit all the same".)