Owners vote down proposal to move kickoffs to 40-yard line

[papasmurfbell]

http://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2014/03/26/owners-vote-down-proposal-to-move-kickoffs-to-40-yard-line/

 

Kickoffs will remain at the 35-yard line this season after owners voted down a proposal to move them to the 40.

Three years ago the league moved kickoffs from the 30 to the 35 as a player safety measure, arguing that the rule would create more touchbacks and therefore fewer high-speed collisions on tackles. When passing that rule, the NFL also added rules restricting how the kickoff team could line up, to create shorter running starts.

This year, Washington’s proposal to move kickoffs to the 40 came out of the blue, and there didn’t seem to be a lot of support for it. So it’s not surprising that the owners voted it down, as reported by Albert Breer of NFL Network.

The kickoff is still viewed as one of the most dangerous plays in football, and there’s even been talk that the league might eliminate kickoffs entirely. But for now, the rules on kickoffs will remain the same, for the fourth season in a row.

At least they didn't ruin another rule.

 

[cravnravn]

I think it's bs that they kick off from the 35, put it back to the 30

 

Score a td and extra point, the networks go to commercial, they come back just to see a kickoff sail through the end zone, then guess what , they go to another commercial.

[papasmurfbell]

They are trying to stop the head injuries.

[RavenMad]

They are trying to stop the head injuries.

 

Here is a novel thought. Teach proper tackling technique.

 

In Rugby you must use your arms while attempting a tackle. Those guys don't have helmets yet have far fewer concussions yet play many more games per season. My guess is it has something to do with tackling technique.

[papasmurfbell]

Many of the head issues come from a WR ducking the hit. They don't do that in Rugby. Also you have less space to get a head of steam to hit a guy in that game.

[cravnravn]

They are trying to stop the head injuries.

 

Then forego the kickoff and just start from the 20

[papasmurfbell]

I don't think they should drop it. There will be less come from behinds. Imagine if the ball was placed on the 20 for the minny game.