Erm, let`s see- in gridiron, you have a whole team just to kick off. Then you have a different team to field a kickoff. Then there`s a whole different team for fieldgoals. Another one for playing regular offense. Plus yet another for the specific purpose of defense. Added to that, those much-talked about quarterbacks basically play like pre-programmed robots. The coach gives you the call, and you execute it. Simple really, even though it obviously requires a lot of skill.
Now, let`s just compare that to rugby. Your prop`s primary function is to gain or prevent a good right shoulder in the scrums, depending on if you`re loosehead or tighthead. They must also support the catchers at lineout or kickoffs. Add to that cleaning out in the rucks, adding your bulk to the mauls, taking the ball up in offence and smashing people back on defense. So basically, IMO, even a prop forward in rugby is a more complete athlete than any gridiron player.
Add to that the fact that there`s not a single timeout in rugby. Yup, that`s right. As a player, you need to analyse everything that happens on the field, assess the situation immediately, and act accordingly. Sure, there`s a halftime break plus the odd message relayed via the physio at injuries. But it`s still up to the individual players to make each and every call on offence and/or defense.
Now, don`t get me wrong. I do actually enjoy watching gridiron. The game certainly has it`s appeals- being able to legally tackle any player, whether he`s the ball-carrier or not, certainly looks like a helluva lot of fun. But i.t.o. overall athletic ability, there is just no comparison between the 2 codes.
