College football games have become marathon affairs, with some lasting as many as four or five hours, without even considering the potential for multiple overtime periods. For a sport with almost universal love from fans, the length of games may be the sole source of dissatisfaction.
In response, college football executives are reportedly considering several potential rule changes with an aim to shorten games.
According to the report, by Ross Dellenger of Sports Illustrated, the leaders are looking at four proposals.
The first two are considered “non-controversial” and would (1) prohibit consecutive timeouts, most often used to “ice” an opposing kicker, and (2) eliminate untimed downs at the end of the 1st and 3rd quarters in the case of a defensive penalty. These two likely bring the least debate because they also happen to make the least impact on any particular game.
The third idea is to eliminate the clock stoppage after a team gains a first down, except inside the last two minutes of a half. This is very similar to the NFL rule, which would likely make a significant impact on the length of games. Because it is so similar to the way the NFL plays, and would render marked benefits it is gaining wide support among decision makers.
The fourth proposal is considered more controversial and would mark a major change. In this proposal, after an incomplete pass, the game clock would restart once the ball was spotted by the official, rather than when the ball is snapped for the next play.
According to Dellenger, the rule changes would be aimed at being implemented this fall, but are likely several weeks away from formal approval.
College football leaders are moving closer to recommending clock-rule changes meant to reduce plays in games for safety and game length reasons, sources tell @SINow.
Under one proposal gaining wide support, the clock would run after a first down.https://t.co/7B2dTMS5Eo
— Ross Dellenger (@RossDellenger) February 20, 2023
Contact/Follow us @AggiesWire on Twitter, and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Texas A&M news, notes, and opinions. Follow Joey on Twitter: @JoeyIckes
[mm-video type=playlist id=01fvdd4pnb49trk727 player_id=01f5k5y2jb3twsvdg4 image=]
[lawrence-auto-related count=3]