8/7/08

Reason #63 college football is better than the NFL

From SI.com

The NFL has implemented a new code of conduct for fans:

It includes bans on:

-- Behavior that is unruly, disruptive, or illegal.

-- Drunkenness and signs of alcohol impairment that result in irresponsible behavior.

-- Foul or abusive language or obscene gestures.

-- Interference with the progress of the game, including throwing objects onto the field.

-- Failing to follow instructions of stadium personnel.

-- Verbal or physical harassment of fans from the opposing team.

"The in-stadium experience is critically important to the NFL, our clubs and our fans and it will be a major focus this season," Goodell said in a statement. "We are committed to improving the fan experience in every way we can -- from the time fans arrive in the parking lot to when they depart the stadium."

Guys go to football games on Sunday to get away from rules, wives, girlfriends, bosses, and life in general. Guys like to rag the opposition, and their fans. It is part of the unspoken NFL fan code of conduct. I once went into Arrowhead with a Steelers jersey on. I was harassed all game long. So what? Did those people deserve to go to jail? No. I knew what I was doing.

The league also left teams the option of adding additional provisions to the code based on local circumstances. It said the guidelines would be contained in mailings to fans and signs posted at stadiums.

Consider this the 'Pontiac Silverdome Rule.'

Paul Tagliabue never would have gone for this. You know why? He is so smart. S-M-R-T. You want to get rid of the worst of the worst, fine. but most of the stuff they do is already illegal, and they can be taken out back right then and there anyway. Don't put out this happy feely "code of conduct" that makes us all feel like we're back in kindergarten pooping ourselves and getting in trouble for lifting Suzy's skirt to see what's there.

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