NFL rule change could eliminate kickoffs

Written by Matt Swider on December 07, 2012

NFL Rule Changes 2012 News: Kickoffs during the Broncos-Raiders game, which the Denver won by a score of 26-13, could be among the last, as the NFL contemplates a rule change.

The NFL could eliminate kickoffs from future games as part of a proposed rule change by commissioner Roger Goodell.

“One idea that Goodell predicts will get more consideration: eliminating kickoffs,” says Time Magazine. “Fans may object to this rule change, since kickoffs produce thrilling returns.”

Indeed, nothing pumps up an NFL crowd like seeing their special teams go to work and the return specialist break through the defense for a 100-yard touchdown.

But, eliminating kickoffs might be in the best interest of players beset by injuries long after their careers.

If the NFL were to eliminate kickoffs

Doing away with kickoffs would require a new set of rules like the ones proposed by Tampa Bay Buccaneers coach Greg Schiano.

“After a touchdown or field goal, instead of kicking off, a team would get the ball on its own 30-yard line, where it’s fourth and 15,” Time says in their Goodell interview.

“The options are either to go for it and try to retain possession, or punt. If you go for it and fall short, the opposing team would take over with good field position.”

Kickoffs would be eliminated in favor of punts, which would result in less violent collisions.

NFL Playoffs begin Jan. 5

Wild Card teams begin the NFL playoffs on Saturday, Jan. 5, and if the proposed elimination of kickoffs does go through, it could be the last season for the football staple.

It’d be interest to see how players adjust, fans react, and - in the gaming world - how Madden NFL 14 changes its gameplay formula as a result.

With NFL Commissioner Goodell taking so many steps to protect players, it’s once again a question as to whether or not we’ll ever see an NFL Blitz video game again.

The NFL Blitz series was originally abandoned when the league signed an exclusive deal with EA for its Madden NFL video game franchise, and there were rumors that the NFL wanted to shut out that type of violent, over-the-top football gameplay.

A new NFL Blitz did return to consoles on PS3 and Xbox 360 through digital distribution earlier this year. However, the developers, who I interviewed before the game’s release, were forced to cut out “late hits,” the original series’ violent (though meaningless) tactic used after players are over.

Whether or not kickoffs have the same fate is still uncertain. There’s still time on the clock for this controversial proposal.

source: Time Magazine