By John Shinn
1. More points will be scored: The clock changes will result in more plays from scrimmage and, as a result, bigger offensive numbers. Quarterbacks will get more passing attempts, receivers more catches and running backs more carries.
2. No-huddle offenses have advantage: This might not last all season, but those used to playing at a faster pace won’t have to worry about clock-management issues as much.
3. Depth more important: More plays mean more opportunity for injury and players becoming tired. The big beneficiaries should be the powerhouse programs, like Oklahoma, that can go three-deep with quality athletes at several positions.
4. Shorter games: This was the NCAA’s hope when the rule change was made. Last season, college football games averaged three hours and 22 minutes. The goal is to get that down to 3 hours.
5. Consistency in pace of play: Coaches have complained for years that different officiating crews work at different speeds. The 40-second playclock will take some of the pace out of their hands.
