College football kickoffs may never be the same.
On Friday, the NCAA approved several rule changes for the upcoming season, including one that drastically changes kickoffs and kick returns. With the new kickoff rule, the ball does not have to be caught in or go through the back of the end zone. The receiving team can now fair catch any ball inside the 25-yard line and it will result in a touchback.
When asked his initial reaction to the rule change and how it changes the game, Georgia head coach Kirby Smart downplayed the effect it will have on his team’s preparation.