Well, first thing I’d do is move the kickoff line back to the 30 and then rescind the Emmitt Smith “No taking off your helmet when celebrating rule.” Things like that turn the NFL into the No Fun League.
But, my major project would be divisional realignment, trying to keep divisions as compact as possible, which is hard out West, and to take advantage of what seem to be natural rivalries. One thing I’d do is eliminate the Conferences, which are just holdovers of the NFL-AFL merger. Instead we’d have eight divisions of four teams each. The eight division winners plus the four teams with the best records that did not make the playoffs would enter the “tournament.” I’m sure some sort seeding plan could be worked out, but I’m too lazy. 🙂
Anyway, here are my suggested divisions, with their startlingly original names.
Pacific Division
Seattle
San Francisco
Oakland
San Diego
Southwest Division
Arizona
Denver
Dallas
Houston
South Central Division
New Orleans
Tennesee
St. Louis
Kansas City
North Central Division
Minnesota
Green Bay
Detroit
Chicago
North Division
Cincinatti
Cleveland
Buffalo
Indianapolis
Southeast Division
Tampa
Miami
Jacksonville
Atlanta
East Division
Charlotte
Washington
Baltimore
Pittsburgh
Northeast Division
New England
NY Giants
NY Jets
Philadelphia
I would rather have had Pittsburgh in the “North Division,” because the rivalries there feel natural, but then placing Indianapolis becomes a problem. Regardless, this is my gift to you, Commissioner Goodell.
Just make sure I get credit. 😉
A Seat By The Fire 