The new targeting rule implemented this season has set off controversy for players and fans alike, including a veteran member of the Buffalo Bills.
A new controversial targeting rule implemented this season by the NFL has sparked rage with players as well as fans.
The rule states: “It is a foul if a player lowers his head to initiate and make contact with his helmet against an opponent”. This prohibits helmet-first contact tackling.
This has sparked some anger from players and fans. In an interview with USA TODAY Sports, Buffalo Bills linebacker Lorenzo Alexander voiced his rage over the new rule:
"“I’m a guy that considers myself physical and lays big hits. I’ve never had a helmet-to-helmet hit, but what if I get one next year? And that’s putting onus on a referee and he throws out a star player that impacts a game? I don’t know how that’s going to play. It only takes one time to throw out a Von Miller or Khalil Mack.”“I’m a guy that considers myself physical and lays big hits. I’ve never had a helmet-to-helmet hit, but what if I get one next year? And that’s putting onus on a referee and he throws out a star player that impacts a game? I don’t know how that’s going to play. It only takes one time to throw out a Von Miller or Khalil Mack.”"
If violated, a 15-yard penalty will be assessed to the team as well as an automatic first down. The player involved also may be disqualified from the game.
Coaches have now been teaching players to start tackling with their pads, not the helmet. It’s a new learning process in the league, especially to veteran players who have been doing this their entire career. Some may think it is a simple fix but after a lifetime of tackling one way, it may be tough to change old habits right away.
This has been put in place for the most part to prevent any more serious injuries that could come with. tackling headfirst. A majority of fans see this rule as lessening the physicality of the game. Along with the new kickoff rule, we are starting to see changes coming to the league that will hopefully prevent catastrophic injuries such as the ones suffered by Ryan Shazier and Kevin Everett.
As preseason starts, we will look to see how much these new rules will affect the game and how players react in the situation during plays when they are flagged. Bills fans will get their first taste of this on Thursday when the Bills take on the Panthers.