New Rules That Could Benefit/Hurt Pittsburgh Steelers

On Wednesday, the NFL’s Competition Committee proposed new rules and bylaws put up for consideration for next season.  Here’s a few that could impact the Pittsburgh Steelers.

Oct 20, 2013; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers kicker Shuan Suisham (6) kicks the game-winning field goal against the Baltimore Ravens during the second half at Heinz Field. The Steelers won the game, 19-16. Mandatory Credit: Jason Bridge-USA TODAY Sports

Longer Extra Point Attempt

Stated Change: Move the line of scrimmage for one-point extra point kicks to the defensive team’s 25-yard line. Two-point conversion attempts would still be snapped from the 2-yard line.

Probably the most contested rule change that was rumored for proposal since just after the Super Bowl.  The Commish feels that extra points are just too darn easy.  Automatic.  It makes the game less exciting.  Dare I say, a player safety issue?  High risk, low reward.  So rather than ditching the extra point altogether, the committee proposes that the line of scrimmage move making the extra point attempt essentially a 40 yard attempt.  Meh, ok.  I get it.  Kicker Shaun Suisham is still pretty good from that distance.  What would it mean for the Steelers if the rule is approved?  I would expect more two point attempts overall, especially during home games when they are heading towards the dreaded open ended end zone and any kick over 20 yards is very tricky.  How does this rule help the Steelers? It really doesn’t.  Each team will be testing this one out if it happens.  Where it will suck is that you can kiss a fake 2-point conversion out the window.  That’s right, by changing a rule for more “excitement,” you are eliminating a different exciting part of the game – the fake.  What sane coach would perform a fake extra point and go for two from the 25 yard line?  No one.  Not that it happens very often.  But with the ball so far back, you would have a better chance seeing Joe Flacco with two separate eyebrows before you saw someone attempt a 2-point conversion from the 25.