Here’s a reason to watch the Pro Bowl:

The NFL is going to test drive a rule that would give teams the option of trying a 4th and 15 conversion instead of attempting an onside kick to win the ball back.

Via the Washington Post:

During Sunday’s all-star exhibition game in Orlando, a team can opt to try to retain possession of the football following a touchdown and extra point or successful field goal. To do so, the team would have to convert what amounts to a fourth-and-15 play from its own 25-yard line. If it gets a first down, that team would keep possession and continue its drive. If it doesn’t get a first down, the other team would take possession of the ball at the spot at which the play ends.

There are no kickoffs during the Pro Bowl. A team’s other option after a touchdown or successful field goal is to give the opposing the team the ball at its own 25-yard line.

Surely one of the teams will have to try this, just so we can see it in action. Seems awfully risky, but you’d probably only try this if you were desperate anyway, i.e., losing by a one score with 1:54 on the clock and needing to get the ball back.

Because if you fail, the opponent is starting their possession somewhere between your 39 and 25 yard line, which is essentially field goal range. On the other hand, a failed onside kick still results in the ball going into the opponent’s half of the field, barring an illegal procedure penalty.

But it’s a good idea, using the Pro Bowl as a testing ground for new rules. Gotta make it interesting somehow.