This offseason, the NFL moved kickoffs from the 30 yard line to the 35 yard line. While five yards may not seem like a big deal, we saw that it greatly minimized the importance of the kickoff and kickoff return teams in preseason. Many have complained about the rule change and hope that it will change by the start of the regular season.
The rational behind the rule change was that it’s making the game safer. I think this logic is complete nonsense. You are not lowering the intensity of the kickoff return, but just reducing the number of kickoff returns. If the ball is going to soar into the endzone every time, then why not just get rid of the kickoff all together and just have the team start on the twenty. The rule takes away the most exciting play in the NFL. I love watching players rush down field and knock the snot out of each other. What about the spectacular returns that players make that gets the whole crowd on their feet? How are we going to laugh at a kicker’s pathetic attempt to tackle the ball carrier? It’s not helping the game, it’s simply ruining it. Ever watch Hard Knocks? Some players make the team based solely on their abilities on special teams. What about Josh Cribbs and Devin Hester? They’re getting paid because of what they bring to the kick return game. I’d be surprised if this rule lasts much longer and let’s hope it doesn’t.
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