Walter Camp Favors Restriction of Forward Pass

The following article concerning the game of football as played this year under the revised new rules, was written by Walter Camp, Yale '80, for the Yale News. Mr. Camp believes the rules have fully justified themselves during the past season, with the exception perhaps of the one giving greater freedom in the use of the forward pass. Upon this it appears some restriction ought to be placed before next year. On account of Mr. Camp's position on the Rules Committee, his stand in this matter is one of considerable importance.

Mr. Camp's letter follows:

"When the new rules were first introduced two years ago, there were many who contended that it was too much to require of any team that they should gain ten yards in three downs, and the prediction was that "no-score" games would put an end to the ten-yard rule in short order. The contrary has proven true, and already there are those who would like to see the forward pass more restricted, relying upon it as it was a year ago, or even eliminating it altogether and keeping the onside kick and ten-yard rule. What was needed in the game was primarily to lessen value of possession of the ball and this the ten-yard rule achieved. With its introduction there went out all the close hammering mass plays which were good for two or three yards on a down but no more. The American collegian, whether player or spectator, does not care for a game in which the element of chance is paramount. He likes to see or play a game where hard work counts, and a game where definite planning secures a well-appreciated result. For this reason he does not care for the unlimited forward pass, which can now be tried without severe penalty on first and second down. Throwing the ball around indiscriminately may be the last resort of a weak or inferior team, and as such is unsatisfactory.

"In other respects, like the separation of the line of scrimmage and the improvement in the general conduct and spirit of the play, the rules have fully justified themselves and have rendered the game more popular than ever."