If the point of the rule was to just reduce the number of returns and thereby reduce the risk of injury, then it is unnecessary. However, if the intent is to eventually elimiinate returns, this is pretty good way to do it. Just look at the trends of touchbacks as a percentage of kickoffs; it increases just about every year because players (kickers included) get stronger over time. They increased every year until 1994 when the kickoff was pushed back to the 30, and after the 1994 dropoff, they continued an upward trend. No matter what Josh Cribbs or Devin Hester says; there will be more touchbacks. They may might be given the discretion to run out kicks from deep in the endzone, less capable returners will not. It maybe makes the best guys even more valuable.

http://theresastatforthat.blogspot.com/2011/08/nfls-new-kickoff-rules-are-they-really.html

August 19, 2011 at 12:59 pm