Here are two XFL rules the NFL should adopt
XFL's alteration: 4th-and-15 conversion to maintain possessionWhat is the regulation? Only during the fourth quarter, XFL teams can opt to attempt a 4th-and-15 conversion from their 25-yard line after scoring to keep the ball. However, if they fail, the opposing team will gain possession at the spot.
Teams may still try a conventional onside kick at any point in the game.
Why the NFL should consider it: The onside kick is a lackluster and unexciting aspect of the fourth quarter in NFL games. In 2020, the NFL even revised the rules regarding onside kicks by restricting defenders in the "setup zone" to boost the success rate of the play. Prior to this change, only 4% of onside kicks were recovered successfully. Unfortunately, it hasn't substantially improved since. Theoretically, the onside kick should be one of the most thrilling plays in football, as it can be the ultimate equalizer when teams require it the most. However, in reality, the onside kick serves as an outdated "Hail Mary" type play that diminishes the endgame suspense.
The XFL's modification would enhance the excitement of the sport's most thrilling quarter, giving its fans a reason to tune in to the final moments of each game, even if the team's deficit seems insurmountable. The cost of failing a 4th-and-15 conversion is also significant, creating a single play with enormous stakes.
On a scale of 1-10, how significant would this change be for the NFL? It would rate 150 out of 10. Can we commence this immediately?
XFL's modification: Tiered extra pointsWhat is the rule? XFL teams have three options for scoring extra points, worth one, two, and three points, correspondingly. A 1-point attempt starts at the 2-yard line, a 2-point attempt starts at the 5-yard line, and a 3-point attempt starts at the 10-yard line. If the defense returns the ball for a touchdown, they will receive the same number of points. Kicking is not permitted for any of the extra points.
Why the NFL should try it: The NFL's current extra point system necessitates a significant overhaul. While it's commendable that more teams are attempting 2-point conversions, the entire structure seems stale and inflexible.
The XFL's system, on the other hand, creates genuine decisions for each team and serves as a crucial strategic component for teams who are trailing late in games. Coupled with the XFL's 4th-and-15 conversion rule, an 18-point deficit is merely a touchdown, a successful 3-point conversion, and a 4th-and-15 conversion away from setting up a thrilling conclusion, with the trailing team having a chance to tie the game. (Although it may seem complicated, it's indeed a possibility! The St. Louis Battlehawks scored a late touchdown, completed a 4th-and-15 conversion, and ultimately came from behind in the closing moments to defeat the San Antonio Brahmas in XFL's opening weekend.) Don't we all desire games that feel significant throughout the entire duration?
On a scale of 1-10, how significant would this change be for the NFL? It would rank 10 out of 10, without a doubt.
| POLL | ||
1 MARS | 20 ANSWERS Here are two XFL rules the NFL should adopt Should the NFL adopt these two rules? | ||
| Yes | 9 | 45 % |
| No | 11 | 55 % |
| List of polls | ||
