NFL Changes Rule, Removes PATs After Game-Winning TDs at End of Regulation

The NFL passed a rule Wednesday that will no longer require a team to kick an extra point if it scores a game-winning touchdown on the final play of regulation, according to the Associated Press (via ESPN.com). 

The change comes after Stefon Diggs scored a 61-yard touchdown as time expired to hand the Minnesota Vikings a 29-24 win over the New Orleans Saints in the divisional round of the NFC playoffs.    

A joyous on-field celebration unfolded after the score, and New Orleans retreated back to its locker room. But because of the rule in place, the Saints had to send a handful of players back onto the field so the Vikings could take a kneeldown to conclude the proceedings. 

The change doesn't figure to have much effect, if any, on teams. 

Bettors, though, are a different story. 

For instance: If the Vikings had converted the extra point instead of taking a kneeldown, they would have covered a 5.5-point spread. 

But now that teams won't have the option to kick, those who choose to wager won't be in for a dramatic waiting game.