Owners Vote to Change Overtime Rules

Added on Mar 28, 2012 by Scott in

NFL

The days of NFL teams winning the coin toss in overtime and driving down the field to kick a game-winning field goal are over. League owners have voted to adopt playoff overtime rules for regular season games, meaning each team will receive one possession unless the first team to have the ball scores a touchdown on its opening drive. In addition, all turnovers will now be reviewed by the replay booth so coaches no longer need to waste a challenge.

Both rule changes make sense. Once the decision to alter overtime playoff games was agreed upon it was only a matter of time before the regular season followed suit. And considering how crucial turnovers are in determining the outcome, having them automatically subject to review is long overdue.

What else is going on across the league? Let’s take a look.

The 49ers have agreed to terms with running back Brandon Jacobs, who was released earlier this month by the Giants. He will likely split carries with Kendall Hunter behind Frank Gore.

Vikings head coach Leslie Frazier revealed injured running back Adrian Peterson is set to begin running “on land” in the coming days. Peterson’s rehab from a torn ACL and MCL is reportedly on track for him to start Week 1.

New Bucs head coach Greg Schiano made it clear that fumbling won’t be tolerated next season. Any running back who coughs it up will lose touches. Are you listening, LeGarrette Blount?

Get ready for more horse-collar penalties. The Competition Committee recommended they be a “point of emphasis” in 2012.

Eagles head coach Andy Reid said the team has no interest in signing Plaxico Burress despite persistent rumors to the contrary. They already have one problem child wide receiver, so adding one more might not be a smart idea.