Finding A Solution To End Training Camp Fights
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The best way to simulate game action is to practice against a true opponent. Tensions are high as new blood is brought in. A new level of competitive football is reached.
But the craziness must end.
Dez Bryant took a sucker punch to the face on Tuesday. Players were leveling others with cheap shots from behind. Thankfully, no one was injured.
VIDEO: Brawl Breaks Out At Cowboys Practice
But was it productive? No.
Here are five solutions to ending training camp fights once and for all.
1. Fines/Suspensions
What if fights between teams were policed as they were in games? You fight. You are ejected from practice.
Or take it a step further. Any player involved in an altercation faces the possibility of a significant fine -- or even suspension from game action.
Controlling your emotions is part of the game. Doing so in practice is the best way to prepare for the season -- which is why these joint practices are held in the first place.
2. Team Discipline
Jason Garrett and Jeff Fisher are ultimately responsible for what happened on Tuesday.
If they truly want these extracurricular brawls to end, they should have the power to make it happen.
The discipline can be handled behind closed doors.
3. 1-on-1 Battles
Wanna go? Fine.
If a defensive back and wide receiver have a real beef, line them up then and there for a 1-on-1 pass drill. If a running back and linebacker are nearing fisticuffs, how about a 1-on-1 tackling drill.
This will settle the petty differences between teams and provide an outlet for the players -- and entertainment for the fans.
It's also productive.
4. A Controlled Fight
This might sound ridiculous, but so is preseason football.
Boxing. Oversized sumo wrestling. Jousting. Just give these testosterone-filled athletes an outlet in which to fight.
But do it in a way that prevents significant injury.
5. No Joint Practices
If these athletes can't control their emotions, it's time to end joint practices.
There are already four preseason games, which is ample time to prepare for the season.
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