6. The NFL’s new pass interference rule

There was outrage around the country, especially in New Orleans, after Los Angeles Rams cornerback Nickell-Robey Coleman obviously interfered with Saints receiver Tommylee Lewis in the NFC Championship Game in January. But no call was made and the play wasn’t eligible for review. That prompted New Orleans coach Sean Payton to go on a crusade to get the pass-interference rule changed. Payton was successful, as the league changed its rules to include reviews of pass-interference calls and non-calls. But coaches haven’t been happy with how pass interference is being enforced, with very few on-field calls being overturned. Look for the league to examine this issue again in the offseason.