In principle you are correct. Unlike with an unplayable ball, whatever the trajectory in the goal area, a team has failed to defend fully the entire goal area.
But it’s a circular conversation we have had for years at the old place until arriving here, as we gather together now to hearken fondly to such a rule with historic roots in football, which is still present especially in modern Aussie Rules.
The argument i’ve been hearing for years is it is rewarding failure for missing the FG. Just figured it should be turned back on them for failing to deal with the kick when possible.
So Flutie says that we are trying to Americanize the game. He isn’t in favor of that. Bit surprised given his relationship with the Bills and MLSE. He does seem to be ok with the field shrinking due to compatibility issues.
Th field absolutely needed to shrink for just that reason. The length was a real issue. That has now been addressed and the new field will be WAY more compatible with soccer and track and field setups now. Long overdue.
Not to mention, fans in the endzones will be much closer to where the action is on the field and will make for both a better TV & stadium experience.
Fans in the endzone of existing buildings will be five yards further away from endzone action. They will be ten yards closer to the other side of mid field. Assuming my math is good. Totally agree with the compatibility issue.
The stadiums will have to be altered. That is relatively inexpensive fix.
Its also been previously discussed the likelihood these would be premium seats.
With respect to Flutie, I watched this interview excerpt at what looked like some sort of sports legends convention, he clearly had not yet heard of the changes nor had time to digest before eliciting a response.
His brows furrowed and he said it sounds like they’re Americanizing a bit and that’s too bad because we have a good game. His next thought went to field size for expansion. The social media machine then immediately went to work with headlines saying “Flutie Against New Rules..”
Well, yes he expressed skepticism when put on the spot. But I’m not 100% sure he’d be a public champion of rule preservation given time to think.