Why is the NFL making it less safe to play in the NFL?

[OhSnap]

http://vizual-statistix.tumblr.com/post/82268735243/between-the-2010-and-2011-nfl-seasons-in-an

This chart has a graphic showing the effects of moving the kickoff line forward in an attempt to decrease full speed collisions on kickoffs. Theres nothing groundbreaking here, the number of plays starting at the 20 yd line more than doubled and the number of plays starting beyond the 20 yd line was more than cut in half. Thats what it was supposed to do. The number of kickoffs charted between 2011-2013 is over 7000 so in turn a large percentage of those kickoffs has resulted in longer drives to score because of worse field position putting starters on the field more during that span.

So has the NFL shot it's self in the foot by increasing the number of yards needed to score?

 

[Yakuza Rich]

It's a great point being made. I think the NFL is more worried about the type of possible injuries. I'm guessing they are assuming that the big neck injuries and paralysis occur on the kickoffs more than your standard play. But, would moving the kickoffs 5 yards up be enough to dramatically reduce the potential for those injuries versus having more yards to try and score with your standard offense vs. defense football. I tend to think it has had no effect. Mainly because the league didn't study it enough.




YR