The Facts: Although talks are extremely preliminary, the NFL is investigating adding a 17th regular-season game and playing it outside the United States. The extra game would take the place of one in the preseason, allowing every team to play once abroad without sacrificing a home match.

Diehards Line:While the 17th game won't get off the ground next season, for sure, it could become a staple of the NFL's schedule by 2009 or 2010 -- once the obvious logistical and scheduling challenges could be addressed.