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Lane Kiffin is the latest college football coach to blast the NCAA for its recent clock rule changes. He was seen being critical of the adjustments on social media, echoing the sentiments of others around the country.
Kiffin referenced a quote from UCLA’s Chip Kelly over the weekend, saying that the changes are hurting the sport for both players and fans.
The NCAA introduced the rule changes this offseason, and viewers got their first real exposure to the effects of that decision in Week 1. The change was intended to shorten game time, which some believed would benefit player safety on the field.
Most, however, think that it was a way for television networks to make more money off of ad time.
The changes called for a running clock outside of the final two minutes of each half. Prior to this season, the clock would stop after each first down at the college level. That’s no longer the case.
It’s achieved its goal of shortening the game, but to the detriment of the fan experience.
Now, viewers at home are stuck watching hours of commercials in between a now sped up football product.
It’s also hurt coaches and players, particularly those that rely on offensive outputs. The running clock has significantly cut down on number of plays for each team, resulting in less possessions and fewer scoring opportunities.
Chip Kelly quipped about the changes during a recent in-game interview, saying, “This new rule is, um, it’s crazy. We had four drives in the first half. This game goes fast. Hope you guys are selling a lot of commercials.”
Lane Kiffin agrees.
On Tuesday, the Ole Miss coach reposted Chip Kelly’s thoughts, becoming the latest critic of the rule changes.
So do you guys buy tickets to go see @MorganWallen or @taylorswift13 or your favorite concerts and want a few less songs at the end?? With all the issues in college football this is what you actually made a change to??? 🤦♂️ https://t.co/U3pCSNWdfz
— Lane Kiffin (@Lane_Kiffin) September 5, 2023
“So, do you guys buy tickets to go see Morgan Wallen or Taylor Swift or your favorite concerts and want a few less songs at the end?? With all the issues in college football this is what you actually made a change to?” Kiffin asked.
A valid point.
Over the first week of the college football season, we’ve seen decreases in number of plays each game, plays per drive, and drives per game. Yet, the length of broadcasts hasn’t significantly dropped thanks to the boatload of commercials in between the action.
There haven’t been many in favor of the rule change. Add Kiffin to the growing list of unhappy campers.