Thoughts about the new rules

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The “Around the NFL Podcast” break down the latest rule changes in the NFL and share which rule they would change today.


View: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s6eDrLQFw1Q

 

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New kickoff rule could alter Rams' kicker search

Nick Wagoner
http://espn.go.com/blog/st-louis-ra...w-kickoff-rule-could-alter-rams-kicker-search



Among the new rules passed at last week's NFL owners meetings was an important alteration to how the league is going about kickoffs.

Now, instead of bringing the ball to the 20-yard line after a touchback, the offense will get an extra five yards of field position and begin drives at its 25. It's only five yards, what's the big deal, right?

Well, ESPN NFL analyst Matt Bowen explained that it actually is a fairly big deal and could change how teams approach kickoffs.

As Bowen points out, teams are now more likely to search for kickers who won't simply knock the ball out of the back of the end zone. On the contrary, a kicker who can accurately hit the ball high in the air at a particular angle could be more valuable than ever because it could put opposing offenses in bad situations and limit returns.

Los Angeles Rams? Well, at the moment the team doesn't have a kicker under contract. They have interest in bringing back Greg Zuerlein, but coach Jeff Fisher has been clear that the team will add legitimate competition for Zuerlein even if he does re-sign.

Zuerlein has one of the strongest legs in the league, but accuracy on field goals hasn't exactly been his strong suit as evidenced by his league-worst percentage in 2015. However, Zuerlein has actually proved pretty adept at angling his kickoffs and not just taking touchbacks. He had just 38 touchbacks in 2015, which tied him for 24th in the NFL.

But Zuerlein was fifth among regular kickers in opponent distance to the goal line after a kickoff with an average of 78.5 yards. That's due in part to his ability to kick at angles and prevent return teams from setting up.

So while the Rams might be on the lookout for more consistency on field goals, Zuerlein's ability to handle kickoffs efficiently should at least keep him in the mix. Especially with the new rule in place.

I.C.Y.M.I.

A roundup of the weekend's Rams stories appearing on ESPN.com. ... A suit was filed in St. Louis in an effort to prevent the Rams from purchasing Rams Park for $1 in October 2024. ... Stedman Bailey is making progress but his status for a return to football remains unclear. ... The Ram-blings wondered if the Rams are in position to move up for a quarterback? ... We broke down new defensive lineman Quinton Coples’ deal with the Rams. ... The Rams closed up shop in St. Louis for good last week. ... Saturday's mailbag explored whether the Ramscould be in line for another draft-day trade. ... Sunday's mailbag began by examining which Rams could be next in line for contract extensions.

Elsewhere:

Saints reporter Mike Triplett writes that some Saints players are urging former Rams defensive tackle Nick Fairley to join the team.

Texans reporter Tania Ganguli offers the Rams some advice on "Hard Knocks" based on how the show went for Houston last year.

Kelvin & Travis discuss why the Rams aren't inspiring much excitement withCase Keenum at quarterback.

Ben Lyons and Jeff Katz wonder whether the Rams made a mistake not pursuing Robert Griffin III.

The Raiders' rent in their current stadium is tripling for 2016.

For The Win offers a look at a billboard in Los Angeles that fires a shot at the Rams' former home.

STLToday.com has more details on the Rams' option to buy their former training facility and St. Louis' efforts to stop them.

 

[JUMAVA68]

I think completely doing away with the Kickoff, eventually, is exactly their plan! Which, to me sucks, because it's one of the most exciting moments in the game! I wish they would stop F-ING with My Game!! JMO

This is another "Silly one!!" Goody-Goody Godell wanted it so he go it!!:seizure:I guess I'm just too Old Fashioned for this 'New Age of Football!! I'll com-down after I have a drink!!

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I wish they would leave it alone myself but the pussification of the NFL continues.

 

[RhodyRams]

my thoughts on the ejection rule:

Bullshit


Remember a few years ago Sims got a bullshit RTP call for giving Romo a tap on the shoulder. With this rule it will change the way defensive players play once they get one bad call. I have seen too many atrocious personal foul calls that had a major impact on the game.

Personal foul calls should be reviewable, if not by the coaches then at least by the committee in NY.

 

[RamzFanz]

I wonder if the kick-off / touchback rule actually helps teams with good kick returners; Minnesota's Cordarelle Patterson.

Patterson averaged >30yds per return. If most teams are taking a knee, won't the coverage units be a little rusty when someone actually brings one out?

And doesn't another 5 yards encourage teams to not kick it into the end zone forcing a return when returners are rusty?

 

[kurtfaulk]

my thoughts on the ejection rule:

bullcrap


Remember a few years ago Sims got a bullcrap RTP call for giving Romo a tap on the shoulder. With this rule it will change the way defensive players play once they get one bad call. I have seen too many atrocious personal foul calls that had a major impact on the game.

Personal foul calls should be reviewable, if not by the coaches then at least by the committee in NY.

Roughing the passer doesn't apply here.

.