The Alliance of American Football shows promise
Yesterday marked the inaugural season of the Alliance of American Football. For those just catching up, the AAF was founded by Hall of Fame Contributor Bill Polian and television and film producer Charlie Ebersol. The league aims at creating an alternative, and a pathway, to the NFL for players that are not on an NFL roster or practice squad. This means players that are not drafted and or do not sign with an NFL franchise have the opportunity to continue playing meaningful football in hopes of elevating their stock and catching the eyes of scouts.
Looking to adopt a team as your own? Here is a list of all eight AAF teams:
Atlanta Legends
Salt Lake Stallions
San Diego Fleet
Memphis Express
Arizona Hotshots
Birmingham Iron
Orlando Apollos
San Antonio Commanders
The AAF adopted most of the rules and processes that the NFL currently holds. However, it is clear that the AAF intends to try and improve upon some of the more complicated, complained about, and confusing rules with some of their own.
For example, there are no kickoffs in the new league. Teams always start their possessions on their 25 yard-line. Without kickoffs, the opportunity for a team down multiple possessions to get the ball back via onside kick has subsequently been removed. Instead, a team that is down more than 17 points at any time, or a losing team within the last five minutes of a game may attempt to get the ball back through an offensive conversion play. The losing team attempting to regain possession may opt to convert a 4th and 12 play from their own 28 yard-line. If the conversion is successful, they maintain possession wherever the play ends. If they fail the conversion, the opposing team receives the ball at the spot of the play.
To further the banishment of kickers, there will be no extra point conversions. Instead, teams must always go for a two point conversion. This makes kickers almost obsolete with the exception of field goals.
Other noteworthy rule changes include the absence of television timeouts, a shortened 35-second game clock, and improved overtime rules. In overtime, each team gets one 1st and goal possession at their opponents 10 yard-line. If teams are still tied after their possessions, well, the game ends in a tie.
The first slate of games provided entertainment for all football fans. Orlando lit up the scoreboard with 40 points and called up the Philly Special to perfection.
The San Antonio Commanders and San Diego Fleet game offered defensive fanatics something to love. The game produced six interceptions and nine sacks on the night.
With two games completed last night, you can catch more action today at 4 p.m. and 8 p.m. EST.
With all of the support from ex-NFL front office executives, coaches, and players, mixed with the rule diversity and timing of play, the AAF may very well stand the test of time as an alternative football league.
Oh yeah, and there’s this:
