15 games, Oct. 9/12/13, 2025

5566 +2/232\\ 

Week 6: 67 Touchdowns: 2 ATDs

 

BUF@ATL: Straight-arm

People who express contentment with the existing break-the-plane rule argue that it is consistent with the forward-progress interpretation of ball placement. What matters, they believe, is the ball’s extension during a play determines its spot. And extending the ball into the end zone’s airspace merits six points.

Our proposed rule revision retains the forward-progress principle, but only between the goal lines. When the end zone is involved, we believe a higher standard should be required because end zones, unlike the 100 yards between the goal lines, are where points are scored. In a contact sport such as football, a ball carrier should be obligated to physically touch the designated scoring area, not just wave at it.

Here Atlanta’s Drake London jabs the ball into the end zone’s airspace but is stopped short of actual paydirt, thanks to a solid tackle by Buffalo cornerback Taron Johnson (7). Yet it’s London who is hailed for making a great play, while Johnson’s effort, which matches or exceeds the strength demonstrated during London’s stretch, is judged inadequate and inferior. Six points for London, a poor film-room score for Johnson. That seems wrong. Hocus Bogus Rating: 4

Video and image: ESPN

CHI@WAS: Wide right

If a ball carrier cannot make inbounds contact with the end zone after he passes the goal line, does he deserve six points?

According to the break-the-plane rule, yes. But doesn’t that expand the end zone and force defenders to try and protect an even wider end zone? Yes it does. Good news for Chicago’s Caleb Williams, a tough break for Washington safety Quan Martin (20), who fought off a block and forced Williams wide of the actual end zone. Advantage, offense. Rating: 3.5

Video and image: ESPN

College bonus: Over and (way) out

Against Auburn, Georgia quarterback Gunner Stockton has no clear path to the end zone. Not a concern. Just take a flying leap at the pylon and trust offense-friendly referees will rule him close enough to the end zone’s airspace and award him a break-the-plane touchdown. It simply doesn’t matter that he lands a yard, maybe more, wide of the end zone itself. Smart fellow. Rating: 5

Video and image: ESPN/SEC Network