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One of the most controversial rules in football will be reviewed by the NFL this offseason. According to CBS Sports NFL lead Insider Jonathan Jones, NFL EVP Troy Vincent said the league will discuss amending the touchback rule regarding fumbling through the end zone.
This is notable, because recently, there hasn’t been much conversation among decision-makers about a potential change. When asked earlier this year if there had been any formal discussion in recent years to change the rule, a competition committee source texted Jones saying: “None.”
The NFL rulebook states: “If a ball is fumbled in the field of play, and goes forward into the opponent’s end zone and over the end line or sideline, a touchback is awarded to the defensive team.” Although it’s a rare occurrence, seemingly every time this rule is enforced in a game, it is met with criticism.
Jones reported in September that one issue regarding a potential change was what the alternative ruling would be. Instead of automatically awarding possession to the defense, could the line of scrimmage for the fumbling party be pushed back to the 20-yard line? Could this be treated like an intentional grounding penalty with a loss of down?
That alternative ruling to replace the touchback may be key to a change. Nothing is guaranteed at this point, but this rule will indeed be reviewed.
Source link : https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/nfl-to-review-the-touchback-rule-regarding-fumbling-through-the-end-zone/
Author : Jordan Dajani
Publish date : 2023-12-13 22:44:45
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