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Someone here said that the players don't know the rules much better then the fans do or something to that effect. Its ironic because that question was asked to Markbreit and though he may have been more politically correct with his answer, he echoed those sentiments.
Question: I recall reading that Don Shula used to give his players written quizzes on the rules of the game. In your opinion, is the typical NFL player similarly well versed in the rules that you discuss in your column? --Paul Auh, Philadelphia
Markbreit: NFL football is very complicated, and the playbooks that have to be committed to memory by the players are hundreds of pages in volume. It would be nice if I could say that the players are well versed on the rules, but because of the time involved in learning the NFL rules, I have to say that they are not. The only true experts are the NFL officials, who spend 52 weeks a year studying the rulebook and case book. It is a life's work to be a true rules expert. The players just don't have the time. I am sure that Don Shula gave the quizzes to his players so that they would have a rudimentary understanding of the basic rules of the game.
I read all of the 2005 questions posted to Markbreit and some of the 2004 before my eyes conked out on me. Its very good reading material if you have not been there. You have to register (its free) but its worth the time. The link is above
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