NCAA Moves Kickoffs to 35, Touchbacks to 25-Yard Line for Safety
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College football will move kickoffs up five yards to the 35-yard line and bring touchbacks out to the 25-yard line instead of the 20 beginning next season in an effort to reduce injuries, the sports’ governing body said.
The National Collegiate Athletic Association’s Football Rules Committee recommended the changes this month after data showed that injuries occurred more during kickoffs than at other times of games. The plan is designed to encourage touchbacks with the ball downed in the end zone.