A proposed NFL rules change
 

You know what I hate?

I hate that any time there's a long kick return, the first reaction of every knowledgeable fan is to look for a penalty flag. I think it taints the excitement of one of the game's most exciting plays.

So I propose this:

On kickoffs and punts, the kicking team gets to add a 12th man. In return, there will be no more penalties called for blocking in the back (above the waist - below the waist will still count) or for holding. All other penalties will be called as normal.

What say ye? Poll forthcoming, unless it gets called back for a block in the back.

Solid idea.

a block in the back is a penalty because it is dangerous...

So?

I'm just thinking how easy it would be for teams to score with holding completely legalized.

Probably 25% of all kicks would go to the house if this happened.

That's a bit extreme...

NEver happen.

The Zebs need to use better judgement in airing their laundry. It should be blatant and effect the outcome of the play, otherwise don't throw the flag.

What do think this is? The Arena League?

25% is probably conservative. You put your ten best tacklers on the field and your fastest guy. Fastest guy gets the ball. Everybody else (except one guy and the kicker) gets tackled. Touchdown every time.

No, I think a system that is something like a "delayed" call is in order. Individual official spots a foul, throws a flag to mark infraction. If it's decided that the foul had no bearing on the outcome of the play in question, flag is pocketed. If it has an effect, penalty stands.

How about players just not hit people in the back? Holding happens a lot and subsequently a lot of holding gets called and still a ton more goes unnoticed or unpenalized. But just one good block in the back can completely spring a return man. They're going to call it every time they see it, regardless of where it happens.

Block in the back is dangerous to player.

Why not allow the ball carrier to use a single-shot derringer? Small calibre, of course. Certainly change the definition of "Taking one for the team."

Why not just make it so that if the flag is on a player that has no effect on the play then it is ignored.

I like that idea. Call the hold if you see it happen, but get together and talk about weather or not it should stand. There are to many calls that happen 30 yards from the play.