Washington, D.C. (July 3, 2012) -- The National Football League this season is changing its TV blackout rule, which should dramatically reduce the number of games blacked out due to insufficient home attendance.

Under the old rule, the home team could decide that its game would not be broadcast locally unless the game was a 100 percent sellout. Now, the blackout will not be an option if just 85 percent of the stadium is sold out.

Fox News notes that the change will have an immediate impact in some cities, such as Tampa Bay where the home team Bucs were blacked out on local TV in 13 of last season's 16 regular season games.

Fans and even members of Congress have urged the NFL to modify the blackout rule.

In related news, the NFL said it was implementing a number of changes at the game itself designed to improve attendance. For instance, stadium fans this season will be able to see the same replays that fans at home can see, even if the replays are of controversial calls.