The CFL rules committee has put forth a proposal to eliminate tie games in the regular season. If a game is tied at the end of regulation, a maximum of two overtime rounds will be played with teams starting at the opponent’s 35-yard line. If the score remains tied after the two possessions, the game will be recorded as a tie in the standings.
As per the proposal, if the score remains tied after overtime, the game will be decided by alternating plays from the opposition’s three-yard line until one team scores and the other does not. In contrast, CFL playoff games currently utilize a two-possession overtime format in case of a tie after regulation, with overtime continuing until a clear winner emerges.
An additional suggestion by the committee pertains to the timing of the final three minutes of a half in a game. It recommends maintaining a 20-second play clock instead of the 35-second clock set to be implemented this season. These proposals, disclosed by a league source requesting anonymity due to the CFL’s pending formal announcement, are subject to approval from the CFL’s board of governors.
CFL commissioner Stewart Johnston is expected to convene a teleconference call later on Wednesday to discuss further details.