Parsons Calls for Rule Changes to Boost NCAA Wrestling Offense

Former Penn State wrestler says current rules lead to too much mat wrestling and not enough scoring.

Mar. 22, 2026 at 12:04am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Micah Parsons, a former Penn State wrestler, is calling for rule changes to the NCAA wrestling format to increase offensive action and scoring. Parsons believes the current rules, which emphasize reaction time and mat wrestling, have led to a lack of offense and excitement during matches. He suggested implementing a shot clock to force more aggressive, attacking wrestling.

Why it matters

Wrestling is a core NCAA sport, but concerns about a perceived decline in offensive action and scoring could threaten its popularity and viewership. Parsons, as a former wrestler and prominent sports figure, is using his platform to advocate for changes that could make the sport more exciting and engaging for fans.

The details

Parsons, who wrestled at Penn State, has been closely following the 2026 NCAA Wrestling Championships. He believes the current rules, which prioritize reaction time and mat wrestling, have resulted in a lack of offensive action and scoring during matches. Parsons suggested implementing a shot clock to force wrestlers to be more aggressive and attack more frequently.

  • The 2026 NCAA Wrestling Championships are currently underway.

The players

Micah Parsons

A former wrestler at Penn State University who is now calling for rule changes to increase offensive action and scoring in NCAA wrestling.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“I can't lie this lack of offense wrestling is so weird. Playing outside the mat defense! We need to add shot clocks in wrestling!”

— Micah Parsons

What’s next

It remains to be seen if the NCAA will consider Parsons' suggestions for rule changes to increase scoring and offensive action in wrestling.

The takeaway

Parsons' call for rule changes highlights the ongoing debate around maintaining the traditional folkstyle format of NCAA wrestling versus incorporating more elements of the faster-paced, higher-scoring freestyle wrestling seen at the international level. Finding the right balance to keep the sport exciting for fans will be a key challenge going forward.