The average number of infractions called by officials during a National Football League contest offers a quantifiable metric for assessing the level of rule enforcement and player discipline exhibited across the league. For example, a team averaging a higher number of these assessed demerits each game might be perceived as less disciplined compared to a team with a lower average.
This statistical measure is significant because it can reflect the impact of rule changes implemented by the league to enhance player safety or improve the flow of the game. Historically, fluctuations in this metric often coincide with the introduction of new regulations or stricter interpretations of existing ones, influencing gameplay strategies and coaching philosophies.