A play developed by the Philadelphia Eagles they call “the tush push”. A play nearly impossible to defend, some teams have been trying to get the play outlawed.
Again this year the NFL Competition Committee has tabled that decision…for now; but there are a few other changes to the NFL Playbook which include another kick off modification, revised overtime rules, and expanded replay assist.
After a playoff game that gave only one side a chance to score, the NFL changed the rule to follow those in college and allow both sides the opportunity to score in overtime play but the rule only applied to playoff games. Under the new ruling, the overtime rule has been expanded to include the regular season. Overtime play is just 10 minutes, not a full 15 minute quarter.
Replay assist has been expanded and on-field officials may use it on more plays including objections in relation to face mask penalties, forceable head and neck contact, tripping, horse collar calls, and roughing the kicker calls. Replay assist cannot be used to call a penalty; only verify whether the call was correct or should be overturned.
Known as the “dynamic kickoff” is now a permanent part of the game with the a touchback moving from the 30 year line to the 35.
The Pittsburgh Steelers proposed allowing teams to have a single video or phone call with multiple prospective unrestricted free agents during the two day negotiation period. The proposal was approved.
Each team must provide the balls for each game. The teams may now prepare the footballs used for kickouff as well.
There are more activities that can get a player called for an Unsportsmanlike conduct penalty including the “nose wipe”. The gesture is considered a “gang” move. NFL executive Troy Vincent noted that last season saw a marked increase in “violent gestures” and “sexual taunting”.
The NFL rule book states “any violent gesture, which shall include but not be limited to a throat slash, simulating firing or brandishing a gun, or using the ‘nose wipe’ gesture, or an act that is sexually suggestive or offensive.”
Vincent noted, “we have to be responsible adults. We’re not trying to take away the spontaneous moments. But the shooting and the killing and the sexual acts — you’re a professional.”
The NFL has long employed the antiquated chains on the sideline to determine first downs and ball movement. This season, the NFL will add the Hawk-Eye technology from Sony as a virtual line-to-gain measurement as an aid for officials who will continue to spot the ball on the field.
And the NFL is looking to expand their Christmas Day broadcasts from two to three.