Football is back and so are the penalties especially with the NFL’s new rules regarding tackling and protecting quarterbacks, per CBSSports.
Use of helmet rule, the rule states that it is a foul if a player lowers his head to initiate and make contact with his helmet against an opponent. This rule pertains to all players on the field, and to all areas of the field. The second rule protects quarterbacks, now you can’t drive the quarterback to the ground as if tackling a mobile QB is a simple task. Fans and players have every right to be upset because the NFL is trying really hard to make the game safe, but it’s football.
Imagine a running back lowering his head to run over a player what’s the defender supposed to do? He’s going to have to lower his head to aim low at his legs, it’s just a tough rule to swallow for the defenders who are supposed to tackle. San Francisco 49ers cornerback Richard Sherman is as textbook as they come when it comes to tackling and he even isn’t a fan of the new tackling rules.
“There is no “make adjustment” to the way you tackle. Even in a perfect form tackle, the body is led by the head. The rule is idiotic And should be dismissed immediately. When you watch rugby players tackle they are still lead by their head. Will be flag football soon.”
Sherman has a valid point and the NFL has to reconsider the new rule, also protecting the quarterback a little too much. Officials are throwing flags at every player lowering his head that is adjusting to the offensive players movements. This is going to be a long season. Flip the page to see some routine tackles that have now been deemed flags and more of Sherman’s comments.