NFL Overtime Rules Need New Life

As an avid fan of the National Football League (NFL) and an NFL consumer, I am concerned about the NFL's process for changing the rules of the game. It is important to remember that fans "own" pieces of the league. Perhaps, not in the same sense as a team owner but there is still a substantial investment made by the fans. Thus, I would love to see the league seek more feedback from the fans on the pending rule changes that are debated within the NFL's Competition Committee or at the NFL owners meetings. Why not put a survey on your official website, NFL.COM? I would think It would be good to at least see how the fans around the world feel about pending changes prior the owners voting. Fans like myself understand that rule changes are mostly based on improving the product on the field and not based on how the public would feel about the change, but having additional feedback can't hurt.

Taking all of that into consideration, I'd like to present a solution to all of those that have concerns about the NFL's Sudden Death Overtime rules found on NFL.COM that state that the team scoring first during overtime play shall be the winner. Personally, I really enjoy Sudden Death Overtime. It creates an excitement and an urgency that is beyond compare in the world of sports. Nonetheless, the current NFL rules have slanted towards providing an advantage for a team's offense. This has affected the "fairness" of the current overtime rules and renders the coin toss as one of the most important events of the overtime session. Thus, I suggest the NFL adopt a "No Field Goal" Policy for each team's first possession in overtime. (You can debate whether or not to include drop kicks). This would force a team to attempt to score a touchdown. If they can "punch it in", they win. If they cannot they would be wise to punt; hence, providing the other team an overtime possession and an opportunity to attempt to score a touchdown. This scenario puts the "fairness" back into the 5th period and retains the excitement of Sudden Death.

The National Football League has the best product on television and offers the best in-person fan experience bar none. Mr. Goodell, thank you for being a true caretaker of the game and its traditions. Being passionate about maintaining the integrity of the rules that enhance the game is what prompted me to write this letter. If there is to be any consideration for changing the rules of overtime, I want to be heard. If there is to be any kind of debate, bring it on. I relish the though of additional input. The fans should be given more visibility into the decisions that shape the game we love. We are always open to any and all well founded ideas and viewpoints. When the business of football is done, all that is left is the unadulterated love of the game. That love is what drives a fan's passion; my passion.

Now... let the games begin!!!