Technology is a new part of football that is ever changing and ever lasting. New Innovations are being released on a daily basis that have a direct impact on how the game is being played.
New Helmet Rule- Targeting Technology
Prior to the 2018 season we saw a large number of concussions in the NFL due to targeting and illegal lowering the helmet hits. Many of the hits and collisions were unneeded and dangerous leading to injuries at every level of football, some causing unforeseen lifelong ailments such as CTE.
However, starting in 2018 the NFL decided to take upon themselves to clean up the game and allow officials on the field and in the press box to review and properly judge hits to see if they were targeting their opponents head or leading with the helmet. If either rule was broken that player would face an immediate disqualification from the contest, a necessary precaution in order to keep players healthy.
New Technology and Rule change regarding targeting reviews are helping the game evolve into a safer sport while still maintaining its ruthless “only the strong survive” mentality. Breaking down how a player uses his body to target another player with innovative technology saves injuries, lowers concussions, and allows many more healthy NFL Players to compete on a week to week basis.
Below shows last year’s concussion data, 2018 with its new rule intact is proving to be one for the record books with lows in concussions thus far into Week 11.
Video Review shows Michael Walker Illegal Touching on BC Recovered Punt
In week 10 of College football the The (10-0) Clemson Tigers fared well at Chestnut defeating the (7-3) Boston College Eagles. In what was a closer game than many would have expected Clemson started the match at a deficit after 76 yard punt return touchdown by BC return man Michael Walker.
In what was a crazy punt return for a Touchdown Walker dazzled and turned on the jets, coasting for BC’s first score of the ball game untouched. However, after the play had concluded video review revealed to viewers and everyone at home that the run back should not have stood due to an illegal block in the back by the Eagle’s 99 Colton Lichtenberg on Clemson’s defensive Tackle (90) Dexter Lawrence. Occurring near the 42 yard line, while minimal, the slight nudge by Lichtenberg caused Lawrence to run by Walker, preventing him from contesting the runner. With evidence from Art 5 below from the FBS Rule book this block would signify a penalty that would negate the score.
However due to rulings within college football, penalties are non-review able if not called on the field, thus allowing the touchdown to stand for Boston College.
None of the less, Technology and Video review proved to provide vital information that could have changed the tides of what was a close game early on.
Illegal Block occurs at 15 second mark