The time has come to rejuvenate the field goal aspect in the NFL. Harrison Butker’s impressive 69-yard field goal during the pre-season highlights the evolving skills of today’s kickers. They consistently achieve greater distances and accuracy, yet this has led to predictability and less excitement. While kickers often top the scoring charts for their teams, this fact often goes unnoticed. Moving the extra points and altering kickoffs have not added the desired thrill. Here are proposed changes to energize the game.
Add a Crossbar on Field Goal Posts
A notable suggestion includes the introduction of a crossbar forming a rectangular target. This raises a challenge for kickers to maintain precise placements without kicking too high. It eliminates the reliance on referee judgment calls regarding accuracy. Field goals feel less routine with added difficulty. Even extra points lose their lull, bringing increased attention.
Most NFL kickers practice with field goals ranging 70-80 yards consistently. Coaches are increasingly willing to take risks over 50 yards. However, achieving ample height to avoid blocks remains crucial. Transitioning towards this ‘field goal’ concept aligns more with moderated difficulty and heightened player trials, compelling kickers to fine-tune their trajectory and accuracy.
Revoking the Opening Coin Toss and Starting Kickoff
Imagine NFL’s speedsters racing to initiate each game. Both teams select representatives to dash from the goal line to the 50-yard line for possession of the game ball. Securing the ball awards their team the 20-yard line start. A failure to recover in bounds grants the home team possession at midfield.
Replace the Traditional Kickoff After Scoring
Post-scoring scenarios shift significantly—an opportunity for the offensive team to pursue a 20-yard advancement from their 35-yard line. Success retains possession; failure cedes control. This strategic shift disrupts reliance on onside kicks. Most likely, teams will punt, but with greater variability and strategy involved, including possible blocks, fair catches, or returns.
Abolish Sudden Death Overtime
Resolving overtime without sudden death prevents teams from being disproportionately advantaged by possessing a strong kicker. Allowing possession for each team eschews coin toss dependence. The home team initially decides play direction. In case of a tie, decision rights swap till a winner is confirmed.
Testing these ideas across pre-season games next year could redefine football watching. Simultaneously, consider adopting safer helmets and minimizing lengthy halftime shows to maintain game focus. These measures can make matches more unpredictable and entertaining.
This article reflects the insights of Jason Chaffetz, former placekicker at BYU and former Member of Congress, now serving as a Fox News Contributor and podcast host.
Leave a Reply