Returns are one of the more exciting components of both stock and sports.
Or at least they should be.
Back in ’90’s, when defenses ruled and TD’s were becoming an endangered species the NFL implemented some rule changes to make the game more exciting and high scoring.
One of those was moving the point of kick offs back to the 30. Previously there were only 4 kickoffs returned for TD’. After the change, 16 TD’s and 20% more return yards as well. So not only were more exciting returns made for TD’s but teams also got significantly better field position.
So, now in the name of ‘player safety’ they have moved the point back to the 35.
So what is so important about 5 yards you ask?
Well, it puts the ball kicked off back closer to the endzone, if not in the endzone and creates the opportunity for the defense to force a touch back.
So if they don’t catch and run with the ball as they should, nobody will get hurt.
It also takes out the benefit of counting return yards and scores in fantasy football. Something I was particularly fond of in my league.
So, congratulations NFL. Not only have you risked hurting the season, the fans, and countless supporters of your empire with this lockout; you have the audacity of adding insult to injury by making the game less fun.
Booooo!
Fumbled Returns 