NFL Kicking Balls: Fangio's Asterisk & New Rules
Meta: Explore the NFL's new kicking ball rules, Vic Fangio's comments, and how these changes impact the game. Get the inside scoop!
Introduction
The NFL's decision to introduce new NFL kicking balls has sparked considerable debate, most notably drawing an “asterisk” comment from Philadelphia Eagles defensive coordinator Vic Fangio. This change, aimed at improving the fairness and safety of kickoffs, has implications for the kicking game and strategy across the league. In this article, we'll delve into the specifics of the new rules, Fangio's perspective, and what it all means for the upcoming NFL season. Understanding these changes is crucial for both fans and players alike, as they have the potential to significantly alter game dynamics.
The new rules are designed to reduce high-speed collisions during kickoffs, a key area of concern for player safety. The NFL has been exploring ways to make the game safer without sacrificing its excitement, and the changes to the kicking game are a direct result of these efforts. By introducing a new type of ball specifically for kickoffs, the league hopes to control the trajectory and distance of kicks, ultimately reducing the number of dangerous returns. But how will these changes affect kickers, returners, and the overall flow of the game? Let's find out.
Understanding the New NFL Kicking Ball Rules
The core takeaway here is understanding the exact changes to the NFL kicking balls and the rules surrounding their use. The NFL has implemented a significant change by introducing a specific kicking ball exclusively for kickoffs, and understanding these changes is paramount. This new ball is designed to have different characteristics than the standard football used for punts and field goals, with the intention of influencing kick trajectory and hangtime. These subtle yet impactful differences can significantly affect the outcome of kickoffs and the strategies employed by teams.
The new kickoff rule stipulates that only the designated kicking ball can be used for kickoffs. This eliminates the previous practice of using a worn or slightly deflated ball to reduce touchbacks and encourage returns. The expectation is that the new ball will produce kicks with shorter hangtimes and more predictable trajectories, which in turn should lead to fewer touchbacks and more opportunities for kickoff returns. This is intended to revitalize the kickoff return, an exciting play that had been diminishing in frequency due to safety concerns and strategic decisions.
How the New Ball Affects Kickoffs
The change in ball design is subtle but impactful. It's engineered to reduce the distance the ball travels and the height it reaches, making touchbacks less likely.
- Shorter Hangtime: This gives return teams more opportunities to field the ball. With the kick hanging in the air for a shorter duration, there will be less time for coverage teams to sprint down the field, which should reduce the violent collisions that the NFL is trying to minimize.
- More Returns: By reducing touchbacks, the NFL hopes to bring back the excitement of kickoff returns. A successful return can drastically shift momentum and field position, making it a potentially game-changing play. The new ball is intended to make this a more regular feature of the game.
- Increased Strategy: Special teams coaches will need to devise new strategies for both kicking and returning. Placement, kick height, and return formations will all become even more critical. This could lead to more creative and unpredictable kickoff plays.
The NFL is walking a tightrope, trying to balance player safety with the excitement of the game. The new kicking ball is a key part of this effort. How well it works will be closely watched by coaches, players, and fans alike.
