To compensate for the 5-yard difference, teams kicking off will no long have the same running start. They must stay within 5 yards of the 35-yard line. The league's intent here is to promote safety and limit high-speed collisions, something Vikings kick returner Lorenzo Booker understands.
I asked Booker via text message what he thought of the ruling, and he makes some interesting points:
"At first, I was worried! I thought it would all but eliminate the KR part of the game. Most kicks fall between the five and the goal line," Booker said. "This rule puts the average kick 2-3 yards deep, which under the current rules, is almost automatic touch back. But, with the kick off team only getting a five ...
Original Story:
http://blogs.twincities.com/Vikings/2...
