The game begins with a big whoop-de-doo. A long line of motorcycles parade through the arena leaving a noxious smell of gasoline behind. We were a little shocked the first time they roared through, but now we have come to enjoy it.
We have the star spangled banner.
Then the play begins. Note the field is only 50 yards long. This leads to a lot of offense and not a whole lot of defense. Before this season, the league didn't allow having dedicated defensive players. Everyone had to play both offense and defense. Now, there is dedicated defense and it makes for very exciting games because an inception is very easy to run back. Also note the side walls. Nothing is out of bounds except if you are over the wall.
The field goal is very small. It's the small rectangle in the field. The other two large rectangles are used at kickoff. Kickers can bounce the ball off the screens. This delays the catch - allowing the defensive line to reach the catcher.
And this leads to very high scores.
It is very exciting. I really didn't think I would enjoy it as much as I have. Last night I watched the first game of playoffs which was two other Florida teams from our division face off. Orlando was a wild card (same as Tampa Bay) and Jacksonville the division winner. Jacksonville had been heavily favored, but Orlando had finished the season strong. And they beat Jacksonville by scoring a TD with 8.7 seconds left in the game. It was truly one of the most thrilling games I have watched - in any sport. And because Orlando won, Tampa can host a playoff game next week if they can beat Tulsa tonight Arena Playoff Fever!! Bring it!!
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