College football fair catch rule, explained

The fair catch rule has long been in the NFL, but its recent adoption in the college game has altered special teams strategy.

Football can be a dangerous game, and it’s no more apparent than watching a helpless kick returner buckle beneath tackles. That’s why the “fair catch” rule was adopted in the NCAA, and here’s why that matters.

Although special teams returners often create dazzling highlights, there is major risk to the returner’s reward.

Those who return kicks are particularly vulnerable to high-speed open-field tackles, which could result in immediate injury that contributes to lifelong health complications.

Explaining college football’s fair catch rule

In 2018, the NCAA adopted a new rule: collegiate kickoff returners would be allowed to signal for a “fair catch”, or an unmoving catch in which the kick returner cannot be tackled. Once the kick returner raises their hand and signals for a fair catch, gunners and tackles must hold off as the returner waits for the ball, catches it and kneels. In order to qualify as a fair catch, the ball must be caught within the return team’s 25-yard line. When caught, the fair catch results in a touchback and the offense begins play on the 25-yard line.

The rule was implemented to make kickoffs safer for return players, allowing teams to safely elect a fair catch and resume play on the 25-yard line.

While it may not be as thrilling as watching a returner bob and weave through tackles, it ultimately makes the game safer and promotes the longevity of receivers.

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