All sports seem to be trying to do one thing; make their games shorter. With decreasing attention spans and fans craving constant action, leagues are making sure that their games are running smoothly. Baseball is the most notable sport to do this with the pitch clock being implemented this year. The NCAA has also been mulling a rules change. What does the possible NCAA rule change mean for Wisconsin Badgers Football?
Wisconsin Badgers Football: Possible NCAA Rule Change
What is being proposed? Currently, the clock stops after every first down until the ball is set. Under the new rule change, the clock would continue to run on first downs except in the final two minutes of each half. “This rule change is a small step intended to reduce the overall game time and will give us some time to review the impact of the change,” Georgia coach Kirby Smart said. Smart is a co-chair on the committee. It is projected that this rule change would eliminate about seven to ten plays per game. What does it mean for Wisconsin?
Good News For The Badgers
I think this rule change is great news for the Badgers. Wisconsin’s offense is going to look to put up points and then run the ball to milk the clock. Right now, it is harder to milk the clock when being ahead as the clock stops after every first down. Now, the Badgers can grab a lead and then use their powerful running attack to close out games. This is a disadvantage for any team that finds itself behind in a game. We will likely see fewer comebacks as teams will not have as much time to score.
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Nothing is official yet but leagues seem to be going in favor of anything that speeds the game up. The XFL is using this rule right now and the difference is not noticeable. If the change does go through, look for the Badgers to be able to close out games on the ground a lot next season.
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