Authors Craft
Identify the tone of the article
Informative and objective
Who approved the 4 rule change?
NFL team owners
Based on the lede, what can be inferred about the stance of the author?
The author is somewhat in favor but has little-to-no bias whatsoever.
What sport and league is this article about?
American football and the NFL
Who were the speakers we heard from in the article?
The NFL and the NFL Players Association (NFLPA)
What happens after 3 violations in the same safety category?
The player receives a one-game suspension
True or False: The author has a clear voice or tone that reveals their opinion
False
What is the main purpose of this article?
To inform readers about the NFL's 2026 rule changes.
Identify the outcome
A player receives a one-game suspension after three violations in the same category.
Where will a touchback from a kickoff at the 50-yard line be placed?
At the 20-yard line.
Are there any opinionated quotes that were used in this article?
No
Who/What was the one quote used in the article from?
the joint NFL and NFLPA statement
Identify the angle of the article
The article focuses on how the NFL's 2026 rule changes affect player safety and game strategy.
When will the new rules take effect?
During the 2026 NFL season
How does the author give a clear description of what the new rule is without having bias?
Through comparing past versus present standards directly without using biased language.
Who is the article's target audience?
NFL fans, football players, coaches, and people interested in the sport.
Identify the type of Lede style
Summary lede- it immediately introduces the NFL's four rule changes and modifies suspension policy.
Why did the NFL change the touchback rule from midfield?
To remove the incentive to intentionally kick the ball out of bounds.
How does the author avoid having a biased tone?
By avoiding the use of personal pronouns such as "I" and "we"
Why is it important for a sports journalist to explain rule changes clearly?
So readers can understand how the changes will affect the game and its players.