Teams that frequently commit infractions during games, incurring a high number of penalty yards, often face significant competitive disadvantages. These infractions can range from pre-snap penalties like false starts and encroachment to post-play penalties such as unnecessary roughness or unsportsmanlike conduct. The accumulation of these penalties impacts field position, extending opponents’ drives and shortening their own, thereby reducing the probability of scoring.
Maintaining discipline and minimizing errors is crucial for success in professional football. Teams with a historical tendency to draw flags often struggle to sustain consistent performance across seasons. Factors contributing to excessive penalties can include aggressive play styles, lack of player experience, and potentially inconsistent officiating interpretations. A team’s reputation for frequent penalties can also lead to more scrutiny from referees, exacerbating the problem.
