It sounds as though some beneficial changes are on the way for your weekly NFL fix.
Today, NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell addressed NFL fans with some promising news. The league has announced it is looking into options that would cut out unnecessary time lapses for the viewer. Goodell acknowledges that he has listened to the fans in order to make the game we love even better. Some of the ideas sound quite appealing. They include:
1) Implementing a centralized replay center where the referees would discuss calls with headquarters in New York.
2) Adding a play clock following touchdowns and extra points.
3) A set halftime duration.
Here's my note to @NFL fans about changes we are working on to improve the pace of the game and fan experience: https://t.co/agRImoaqSl
— Roger Goodell (@nflcommish) March 22, 2017
While these are all intriguing, none are more exciting than what Goodell is proposing for commercial breaks (h/t NFL.com).
"“For example, we know how annoying it is when we come back from a commercial break, kick off, and then cut to a commercial again. I hate that too. Our goal is to eliminate it.”"
Yes, Roger! The back to back commercials are extremely aggravating to say the least, and this would certainly speed up the television broadcast. Goodell’s letter continues to elaborate on the fact that much of the league’s broadcasts have fluff that is not needed for the viewer’s pleasure.
"“Together with our broadcast partners, we will be working to meaningfully reduce down time and the frequency of commercial breaks in our game…we also know that you feel there are too many elements in the broadcast that aren’t relevant to the play on the field.”"
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As close to perfect as the NFL is, there is always room for improvement. This is a series of changes that the fan would authentically be in favor of, and probably the players as well. Time will tell how soon some of this stuff would be put into place, but it is interesting news nonetheless.