An Automatic Seven

Whenever Roger Goodell publicly brainstorms, the NFL -- along with the NFL fan base -- quietly holds its collective breath, anticipating something arbitrary to be manifested. 

As of this week, Goodell has made it known that he's looking into the idea of abolishing the point-after attempt. He intends to increase the entertainment value of his brand by doing so, or so he thinks. 

The idea is that a PAT chip shot would be non-existent and that a touchdown would be worth an automatic seven points while teams still have the opportunity to go for two. If they happen to fail, they only get six points for the touchdown instead of seven. 

Honestly, I think this idea is rather absurd.

Yes, a PAT is by far one of the dullest plays in the NFL. It's assumed that the placekicker, barring any interior breakdown by the offensive line or mental lapse, will be successful with his attempt. The success rate is so high --only five misses in 1261 attempts -- that the assumption is validated and justifiably so. However, the extra point, regardless of what you may think, is an absolute necessity within the NFL landscape. 

One can argue that it's similar to the intentional walk, that's strategically used by managers in baseball. The action itself is rather dull with substantially low entertainment value, but it's still a part of the game and can play a major role in the outcome. It's something that's woven into the sport's culture that shouldn't be eliminated because some spectators or high-ranking NFL personnel consider it boring. 

I've seen games won or lost by an extra point. In fact, that single point can play a major psychological role in the NFL. After all, its inclusion with a touchdown means the major score trumps two field goals.

Thus, I think it's importance is evident. The extra point should stay as it is. It's been a part of the NFL since the league was founded. This isn't the WWE. Football isn't just about entertainment. There's so much more. Should we get rid of inside runs, too, that only manage to gain a single yard? 

Think before you speak, Commish. You should worry about players' health, the NFLPA, and how horrid the Pro Bowl is.

And besides, think of all those poor Madden dudes. They've obviously put more thought into this issue than you ever did. Don't deny them their strategies!