College Football Predictions, Bets & Analysis: New Rules Impact Betting

Rule 1 - Outlawing Consecutive Timeouts

This rule would prevent one timeout from being called right after another, which often happens as teams try to ice kickers. If an injury or equipment issue causes the timeout, that will go down as an official timeout. 

Teams can still slow the game down by calling timeouts after each down in a one-score game. Now, they will not be able to ice kickers or avoid the dreaded delay-of-game penalty after calling a timeout. 

Rule 2 - Not Extending Quarters

This rule will ensure that a first or third quarter is not extended for an un-timed down if the quarter ends on a defensive penalty. In that case, the down would be clocked in the next quarter.

That only occurs during the first and third quarters. As the halves close, the accepted defensive penalty will still happen. Simply

Rule 3 - Running Clock.

According to this rule, the clock will continue to run after an offense gains a first down except within two minutes of a half. Under the old rule, the game clock stopped when a team earned a first down, and the clock restarted when the offense was awarded the first down.

There will be no more waiting for the chains and marker to be reset. The clock will run. It keeps the excitement of the “two-minute drill” and does keep the game moving a little. 

Rule 4 - The Halftime Warm-Up Rule

The home and visiting teams will be allowed to warm up from the ends of the field during the final three minutes of a halftime presentation. They will not have to wait for the show to end. Teams will get access from the 30-yard line to the back of the end zone (a total of 40 yards). 

Rule 5 - No Drones With Players On The Field Or Sideline

While players are on the field or sideline, drones will not be allowed, period. This is to minimize allegations of spying and cheating. However, athletic departments can use them for specific media purposes. Again, that does not apply when the players are anywhere within the field of play or sidelines.

Rule 6 - Instant Replay And The Kiosk 

That is correct. Some stadiums do not have access to a workable area for instant replay. The NFL and MLB used these replay kiosks, and now this will apply to some college venues too. So, these kiosks cannot be placed near team sidelines. The lead referee and one additional official will have access to the booths. 

Will This Speed Up The Game?

That is the question asked. Honestly, the answer is not substantial. Games might be a few minutes quicker here and there. Also, games might be a hair fairer. However, with media obligations and all those commercials, the three-hour or more college football game is still a part of our lives.