OT Rule

[autocarry]

Atlanta blowing the lead probably didn't deserve another chance. But it sucks that a team doesn't get a chance to touch the ball based on a coin toss!

 

[coalcountry52]

Pro sports make the dumbest rules and they sadly trickle down to the collegiate level in many ways. Thankfully, collegiate overtimes still make sense. I have a hard time caring about a professional sport that allows plays to continue after a player is on the ground untouched, which makes zero sense at every other level.

 

[WhiteTailEER]

Atlanta blowing the lead probably didn't deserve another chance. But it sucks that a team doesn't get a chance to touch the ball based on a coin toss!

You get to touch the ball if your defense stops them

 

[COOL MAN]

I admit I've never heard the explanation why the NFL has this specific rule (probably because I listen only to the tiniest fraction of the NFL talk I used to).

I realize the receiving team has to go the length of the field to score as opposed to starting from the 25 in college. But I still don't know the League's basic rationale as to why the opponent isn't entitled to the same offensive opportunity simply because their defense couldn't make the stop (or because the receivers won the coin toss).

Oh, and I am aware the rule doesn't apply to the receivers kicking a FG.