NFL’s New Kickoff Rules

Last updated on November 30th, 2018 at 07:54 pm

The NFL season is soon upon us. This is one of the most exciting sports leagues in North America. It is also one of the most popular sports to bet on. This is why you will see football as one of the top offerings for sportsbook software providers. As a bookie, the NFL will be a huge source of action. And not only is the season starting soon, but there are changes in the NFL that will make the games more exciting.

As you know, most sports betting odds change with any development. Staff changes, injuries, trades, and the draft are all factors bookies watch out for. This time around, it is the kickoff rules that bookies will be looking out for.

NFL’s New Kickoff Means a Safer Game

The kickoff is one of the most dangerous plays in the sport. The owners of the NFL have found a solution that will make this play safer. Not only that, but it is also meant to make things more exciting to watch. The new rule eliminates wedge blocking. This new rule will also ban players who are on the kicking team from getting a running start. As for the receiving team, 8 out of 11 players on the field have to line up within 15 yards from the kickoff spot. Lastly, within those 15 yards, there is no hitting allowed.

This new rule will mean less speeds in collisions between the players. The goal of the new rule is to take out the distance between the two teams and slow down tackles and blocks. Of course, the two blockers as well as the returned will still get a running start. The difference is, that the coverage team will slow down due to the blockers. This is because the blockers will be running backwards before them.

But how will this affect the game? More importantly, how will this affect the wagering options for the NFL? It would be impossible to guess the effect this will have. At least, not until we start seeing it as it happens. Theoretically though, it seems easier for kick returners to break free. The lanes may be easier to find, and take advantage of. And while the effect of this may be minimal, it does make for a safer game for players, and more exciting games. Having less injured players may affect the odds for the teams, especially for futures. The upcoming season for the NFL will be a very exciting one. And we are curious to see how this new rule will affect each team in the league.