Why don't NFL games have way more scoring than CFL games?

Question

With 4 downs with each possesion, you'd think the NFL would have way higher scores than the CFL where you only get 3 downs per possesion. I'm thinking that it's mainly because with 3 downs and a 20 sec clock rather than 40 sec clock, each team actually gets more plays in 3 down ball even if it's harder to have a drive with each possesion since there are only 3 downs. I don't know.

Answer 1

because our endzone isn't gigantic, we only use 3 downs of the 4, if we get to 4 its usually a punt. and we don't have the "punt through the endzone for a point" rule

Answer 2

i think its because of the fields..nfl plays smaller field so they have to be way more accurate with throws and plays cause they dont have as much space

cfl has larger space to work with so they can let loose a little more,

u see more 45+ yard places in cfl too i think, in the nfl you kind of just go down the field a little slower

my thought..

Answer 3

In CFL, you see more big plays because it is much harder to sustain a long drive.  Also the larger field often results in isolation between a receiver and a defender.

Answer 4

It actually has more to do with the style of game played rather than the downs itself. The CFL plays a wide-open, pass-based attacking style as opposed to the NFL's style of gradually moving the ball forward via the run.

The CFL has 12 players on the field instead of 11, and that usually results in having an extra receiver. Also, there is unlimited motion in the backfield before the snap, so it allows for a bigger explosion out of the gate, and for more receivers to find in a pass-first game.

Answer 5

The nfl is a more percission game.  The defense will not settle as a second rate goal.

Each side, offense and defense have a job to do, and they both do it very well.  So, you get lower scoring games but enough scores to keep everyone happy.  :)

Answer 6

It is partly due to the passing plays. In the CFL the pass is the weapon of choice. Combine that with the 20 second clock, there is more plays. In the NFL, the clock is at 45 and teams are more concerned with run. Look at SF with the West Coast Offence. They racked up many points.

Answer 7

NFL offences are designed to get 11 yards every three plays, and these days anyone rarely throws the ball deep.

The CFL field is much wider, everyone in the backfield is in motion, the defensive line is a yard off the ball at the line of scrimmage. The emphasis is on moving the ball and moving it fast. The CFL needs a first down in two plays, so teams open up more.

Sure, the CFL punts more often, but every kick is returned, and every kick into the end zone can be worth a point.

Answer 8

More running in the NFL.