Three-point transfers, a side kick alternative and the best penalty shootout in overtime are among the different rules for the USFL activated.
The new league released its rules on Wednesday, explaining several shifts in traditional rules in the NFL and college football.
Scoring teams have a third option to try to get an extra point. A successful melee game from the 10-yard line is worth three points.
The second option to retain possession after scoring is to transfer 4th and 12th of 33 teams.
In overtime, you will play each team’s attack alternately against the opponent’s defense of 2. Each successful scoring attempt will get you 2 points. The team with the most points after three matches wins. Subsequent attempts become sudden death if the score is tied after each team has managed three plays. The overtime period will extend until the winner is announced.
Other distinguishing rules:
• Two passes forward from behind the line of scrimmage are considered legal.
• Each coach will be allowed one replay challenge. The USFL Replay Command at the Fox Sports Control Center in Los Angeles will make all replay decisions.
• All kick-offs will be from 25. No member of the kicking team may line back more than one yard, while the receiving team must have at least eight players in the set-up area between 35 and 45. After the kick-off kicks off 20 yards, The first touch must be by the receiving team. If the set kick dies, the ball belongs to the receiving team at that place.
• On kicks, the gunners may not line up outside the numbers and cannot be held back by a double team until the ball has been kicked.
• The clock will stop for the first landing within two minutes of the second and fourth quarters.
• The defensive interference penalty will reverse the NCAA rule with some exceptions. First, a defender who intentionally engages a receiver beyond 15 yards will be faulted. The penalty will be a spot foul if it occurs 15 yards or less from the melee line or a 15 yard penalty from the melee line if the foul spot exceeds 15 yards.
• If the pass does not cross the scrimmage line, there can be no interference with the pass or penalties for an ineligible player down the field.