Rule changes that passed

[skinsfan_nn]

Originally Posted by Mattyk72

Link: ESPN - Owners table re-seeding playoffs proposal; pass other rules - NFL

Among the proposals that were passed:

• A recommendation to eliminate force-out decisions on pass completions near the sidelines. Now, officials will only have to decide whether a receiver landed inbounds or not. The intended result is more consistency.

• The "Phil Dawson field goal rule." Now, certain field goals can be reviewed by instant replay, including kicks that bounce off the uprights. Under the previous system, no field goals could be reviewed.

• Deferring the opening coin toss. This is similar to the college rule. Previously, the winner of the coin toss could only choose to receive or to kick off.

• A direct snap from center that goes backward will now be treated as a fumble. Previously, it was ruled a false start.

• Eliminating the 5-yard face mask penalty. Now, only the serious face mask will be called (and will be assessed as a 15-yard penalty). The major foul will involve twisting or grabbing the face mask.

One more, and Coach Zorn voted against this rule.

Recap of League Meetings

On Tuesday, the owners approved a communication device in the helmet of one defensive player.
One defensive player will wear a helmet similar to what the quarterback is allowed on offense. Should that player leave the game, a teammate can be designated to also have the device. But only one defender with the device can be on the field at a time.
As for the defensive communications device, the vote was 25-7 in favor (24 yes votes were required) and all seven negatives came from head coaches with offensive backgrounds.