The Chicago Bears thrilled their fans last season with a string of nail-biting, late-game victories, keeping everyone on the edge of their seats until the final whistle. It often seemed like Ben Johnson and Caleb Williams saved their best football for the second half, turning the games into must-watch events.
Among these exciting finishes were two memorable wins against their arch-rivals, the Green Bay Packers. One of these victories featured a dramatic onside kick, setting the stage for a Hail Mary that will be remembered as one of the great moments in Bears history. The fierce rivalry and the division stakes added an extra layer of intensity to these clashes.
Despite the excitement, the NFL's Competition Committee isn't expected to propose changes to the onside kick rules this offseason. Fans and players have taken to social media, voicing their opinions on the need for change. The committee's late-February meetings are more about aligning on current issues than making official changes, but they do set the stage for future discussions.
The onside kick's success rate has been dwindling, with only a few successful attempts this season. The NFL has been focused on safety, introducing the dynamic kickoff to reduce collisions. However, requiring teams to declare an onside kick beforehand takes away the element of surprise, making the play nearly obsolete.
One popular alternative being discussed is the "fourth and 15" rule. Instead of an onside kick, teams would have a single offensive play from deep in their own territory.
If they convert, they keep the ball. This concept has been tested in other leagues with varying success.
While the Bears have thrived under the current rules, it's clear that some change could enhance the game. Whether it's the fourth-and-15 option or another solution, the onside kick is crucial to the thrilling comebacks that define football. If deception is a hallmark of the sport, why should the onside kick be any different?