[Hoot Gibson]

I do not like the new running clock rule.

36 points isn't a big enough gap for a "Mercy Rule"

I'm with you. It would not be so bad if the rule was not triggered until the second half or if it was triggered at 42 or 48 points in the first half. It does not happen often, but on rare occasions, teams have rallied from a 36 point deficit to turn a rout into a competitive game. Maybe the officials should be required to confer with both coaches before imposing the mercy rule. If the coach of the trailing team objects, then additional conferences could be required at the end of the half and third quarter.

If one team is physically over matched with another team to the point where the risk of injury is high, then a mercy rule serves a good purpose. Otherwise, both teams can gain benefits from even a lop-sided regular season game.