NCAA scrapping game-shortening rules

[Texas Aggie]

Guys, please read a LITTLE more carefully.

The Penn St. game last year is one reason why starting the clock on the kick had to be changed.

That's why I said,

I think the clock SHOULD start on the kick (except for after a penalty on Team A)

And starting on the ready after an incomplete pass would take the 'spike' play out of the book.

Which is why I made the comment,

At least on OOB, keeping the spike rule in place.

Besides, even if you changed the inc. pass rule, the spike rule could still be in place, as it would stop the clock until the ball is set for RFP. Granted thats not a great deal of time, but in certain cases it could be useful -- i.e. running up after a long pass play.

I think historically, the forward pass play was somewhat irregular, that the clock stopped after an incomplete pass for reasons like chasing the ball, allowing the team time to return to a huddle after being downfiield, etc. Now, the passing game is a much bigger part of the game than it was 20-40 years ago, that perhaps clock rules need to be revisited.

I know the varsity coaches in Texas didn't like the new timing rules because they felt ANY decrease in total playing time would create some apathy (and possible quitting) by some players. Whether that's true or not, we have some jr. high games that go on for 2 hours because both teams run a passing offense and complete 30% of their passes. I know this isn't an NCAA problem, but when I work 20-25 such games a year, it certainly is on my mind.

Just to let you know where I'm coming from. I expect to be in the minority on this one, and am just interested in seeing if there's a new idea that could resolve everyone's concerns.