When Canadian Football League commissioner Stewart Johnston took to the podium on Monday to announce a number of rule changes — altering the size of the field, moving the goalposts, adjusting the play clock and even tweaking the rouge — he undoubtedly thrilled some who feel the game needs a nudge into the future, while infuriating others who think he’s simply making it look more American.

But it’s what he wouldn’t say that likely resonated the loudest. At least among those who love the Canadian game.

Could he guarantee that, under his leadership, the league will never go to four downs, he was asked.

“I don’t offer guarantees,” he replied. “I don’t say the word, ‘Never.’”

When asked moments later if there was any rule that he holds sacred or is so unique to the game that it absolutely

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