Monday, November 25, 2013

An NFL tie and the Riders win it all

From where I sit it looks like the NFL needs a new overtime system...

via packers.com

No, I'm not just saying that because of the Vikings and Packers ending up in a draw 26-26. It's because they ended regulation 23-23. Each team manged to score a field goal on their opening possession and then accomplished nothing. Let's face it for all the Patriots comeback on Denver was thrilling, the overtime session left a lot to be desired. I'm not saying the NCAA method is perfect, but at least you get a winner every time. It's exciting. It's dramatic. It's not as confusing as the NFL. The CFL uses it, in a modified form for the regular season (2 possessions each before a tie). By placing each team within field goal range at the outset of their possession it encourages risk taking. The NFL would be well served to take a proper look at changing their overtime procedure to match up with the NCAA. At the very least it would prevent people, including some players, from embarrassment when admitting they didn't know football games could end in a tie.

Meanwhile, the 101st Grey Cup was anything but a tie...

via vancouversun.com

There was a lot of one-way traffic in Regina on Sunday...and most of it was heading to the Hamilton endzone. Yes, it's always enjoyable to see a close game. But as someone who lived in Saskatchewan for 3 years, I can assure you it might as well been a 1 point game for Rider fans. But that's not what got my attention. It was the reaction from the players. It amazes me how the players fall in love with the people of Saskatchewan. Of the 24 active players on the roster how many could find Saskatchewan on a map before they came to Canada? How many knew just how small a city Regina is? To put that in perspective, Most Outstanding Player Kory Sheets went to Purdue. They have a student population of just under 40,000, making the University larger than every city in the province save for Regina and Saskatoon. And the players love it. They love Rider Nation. They become part of the community. And after a Grey Cup win at home, they will never have to pay for a drink again.

At least that's how I see it...and I sit in the cheap seats.

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