Colts-Broncos + Rams-Cowboys Are The Two NFL Games Today: What to Know About the New Kickoff Rule

What NFL Games Are on Today?

On Sunday, August 11th, 2024, the NFL preseason continues with two exciting matchups. The Indianapolis Colts will host the Denver Broncos at Lucas Oil Stadium in a game kicking off at 1:00 PM ET. This game marks the start of preseason action for both teams as they fine-tune their rosters ahead of the regular season. Fans will be watching closely, especially as the Colts' rookie quarterback, Anthony Richardson, is expected to see some playing time.

Later in the day, the Los Angeles Rams will face the Dallas Cowboys in a game set to begin at 4:00 PM ET. Both teams will be looking to evaluate their depth and build momentum as they prepare for the 2024 NFL regular season.

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What Is the New NFL Kickoff Rule for 2024?

The 2024 NFL season brings a significant change to the kickoff rules, aimed at enhancing player safety while maintaining the excitement of one of football's most dynamic plays. Here are the key points of the new rule:

1. Kickoff Setup: The ball will continue to be kicked from the 35-yard line, but there are now strict alignment requirements. All kicking team players, except the kicker, must line up with one foot on the receiving team’s 40-yard line. The kicker cannot cross the 50-yard line until the ball touches the ground or a player in the designated landing zone or the end zone.

2. Receiving Team Alignment: The receiving team must have at least nine players in a 5-yard setup zone between the 35-yard and 30-yard lines, with at least seven of these players lined up directly on the 35-yard line. These players cannot move until the ball has landed or been touched.

3. Landing Zone Rules: The landing zone is defined as the area between the receiving team’s goal line and its 20-yard line. Any kick that lands short of this zone is treated as a kickoff out of bounds, with the ball being placed at the 40-yard line. Kicks that land within the zone must be returned. If the ball lands in the end zone and is downed, a touchback will bring the ball out to the 30-yard line.

4. Miscellaneous Provisions: The rule also includes guidelines for onside kicks, with the trailing team in the fourth quarter having the opportunity to declare an onside kick. The alignment for both teams will remain unchanged even with penalties that affect the spot of the kick.

These changes are designed to reduce the high-speed collisions that often occur during kickoffs, thereby reducing the risk of injury while keeping the play an integral part of the game.

Enjoy the action-packed day of NFL preseason football and keep an eye on how these new kickoff rules impact the games!