Goodell delivers state of the league address
I just got back from Roger Goodell’s state of the league address. This may sound like a Carson Daly moment, but I could listen to Goodell answer questions all day. He’s a great public speaker and lets you know exactly where the league stands on a matter, even if you have to translate the legalese. Some highlights from the proceedings
- Goodell had some very interesting things to say about overtime. While only 30% of overtime games historically have ended on a first drive field goal, he says that number has risen to 47% recently. He says the competition committee needs to look at that whether that is dangerous, especially considering how improved kickers are.
- Goodell discussed possibilities like moving the kickoff forward or just starting with the ball on the 20-yard line so that teams have to earn their way down the field. He says the league will discuss it all this off-season and he expects a recommendation from the committee by the end of March.
- The league will not revisit the blackout policy, no matter how poor Detroit plays. Owners may bring up the possibility of taking away the Detroit Thanksgiving game, but he didn’t really comment on that. Plaxico Burress wasn’t suspended already because he’s not a repeat offender.
- There were a lot of questions about the economy and the CBA, as expected. Goodell believes that a “flight to quality” in hard economic times will be an assist to the league because it’s such a good product.
Goodell would not directly address why the teams won’t completely open their books to the players. He said they know the NFL revenues plenty as their partners. A recently commissioned piece by the NFLPA that claimed teams averaged just under $24 million in profit was “completely inaccurate.”
- They will continue to look at ways to make sure the players are protected on the field. “A lot of study is required” to determine whether an issue like a player “launching himself” at another should be required.
- Playing the 50th Super Bowl in Los Angeles is “an attractive opportunity” for the league. (The first one was played there as well.) It sounds like there is a good chance this will happen.
- On New Orleans getting another Super Bowl: If the stadium can upgrade to first-class shape, they would do well in competition with other candidates. My goal is to keep this job long enough to make the next New Orleans Super Bowl.
- Goodell is confident that they can get an agreement with Mexico City to play a game in 2010.
- Goodell thinks at least ¾ of ticket prices in the league will be flat or reduced. Other offers to fans will be taken to keep people coming to games.
- Goodell said a facility is badly needed in the Bay area. He says they are investigating a joint 49ers/Raiders facility, but they haven’t determined that’s the best option yet.
- Dumbest question: Should we penalize players more for excessive celebrations – like possibly taking away the touchdown. Ugh. Luckily that won’t ever happen.
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I really feel that NFL referee's need to be fined for poor calls. This year (Especially in the playoffs) I saw some of the worst calls ever. Some of the calls were so bad it makes me feel like the game was rigged or the ref. was paid to make that call. Also instant replay needs to be reworked and should be able to be called at any time. It should also be able to be used to overturn penalties. Like the horrible roughing the kicker call in the playoffs when the kicker wasn't even touched. Things like that ruin the sport and need to be properly dealt with.