The CFL rules committee is suggesting a change to eliminate tie games in the regular season. If a game ends in a tie after regulation time, a maximum of two overtime rounds will be played with each team starting at the opponent’s 35-yard line. If the score remains tied after these two possessions, the game will officially end as a tie in the standings.
According to the committee’s proposal, if the score remains tied even after the initial overtime rounds, the game will proceed with alternating plays starting from the opposition’s three-yard line until one team scores and the other does not.
In CFL playoff games, if a tie occurs after regulation time, the current system involves a two-possession overtime format. If the game remains tied after these possessions, overtime will continue until a clear winner emerges.
Another proposed change by the committee focuses on the timing during the final three minutes of a half in a game. It suggests maintaining a 20-second play clock instead of switching to the 35-second clock, which was previously planned for adoption this season.
Both proposals come from a league insider who opted to remain anonymous since the CFL has yet to formally announce these changes. The final decision on these recommendations rests with the CFL’s board of governors. CFL commissioner Stewart Johnston is set to host a teleconference call later on Wednesday.