Re: Do we punt too way much in football?
I don't think football is a simple game of math. Emotion is very much in play. Coaches probably worry that if one 4th down conversion fails that it will give the opponent too much momentum that may last for the remainder of the game. I also think coaches punt a lot to show respect for the opponent. If they go for 4th down frequently they are basically saying to the opponent " I don't think your defense is good enough to stop us but if you do happen to stop us your offense isn't good enough to score."
I don't think football is a simple game of math. Emotion is very much in play. Coaches probably worry that if one 4th down conversion fails that it will give the opponent too much momentum that may last for the remainder of the game. I also think coaches punt a lot to show respect for the opponent. If they go for 4th down frequently they are basically saying to the opponent " I don't think your defense is good enough to stop us but if you do happen to stop us your offense isn't good enough to score."