The NFL adopted new rules regarding extra points in 2015, most notably moving the extra point try from the 2-yard line to the 15-yard line. The rules were also adjusted allowing the defense to score two points if they return a failed try all the way back to the other end zone. Both rule changes came into play on Sunday Night Football and made for some interesting moments.
Thanks to new NFL rules, extra points are getting weird on ‘Sunday Night Football’
First, the Broncos blocked a Detroit extra-point attempt and Chris Harris Jr. was off to the races. He initially broke through and it looked like he may be the first defender to score a conversion under the new rule.
That was until Detroit tight end Eric Ebron ruined it by hustling and running Harris down. Still, it created some chaos and excitement not previously seen on extra points. If not for having one of the most athletic tight ends on the other side, Denver might have stolen two points.
Later in the game, the Broncos were penalized for unsportsmanlike conduct while scoring a touchdown. Referee Jeff Triplette initially said the penalty would be enforced on the extra point try. That meant a 48-yard extra point attempt!
That would have been something ... but it didn’t happen. The referees huddled and eventually correctly changed the ruling and instead enforced the penalty on the kickoff. Per the NFL rule book, that was the correct decision.
When a team scores by touchdown, field goal, extra point, or safety and either team commits a personal foul, unsportsmanlike conduct, or obvious unfair act during the down, the penalty will be assessed on the following kickoff.
The NFL wanted to make extra points more exciting. The rule changes have certainly accomplished that on Sunday night.
