Does the new kickoff rule benefit us, how would it have changed last year's results?

[EAVdog]

Does the new kickoff rule benefit us, how would it have changed last year's results?

So Mullen made mention that we finally have a kicker that can put it in the end zone on kickoff, and they change the rules on us. Seeing as how our kickoff return had some pretty bad moments last year does this new rule change gives us an advantage by eliminated one of our weaknesses?

After seeing the replay of the Auburn game last year I have to think that if this rule were in effect then we would have won that game. Auburn's KO returns really put us in a bad situation.

Or on the flipside, with having Jameon Lewis, Kendrick Market, and Brandon Holloway as kickoff return specialist will this hurt us more than it helps?

 

[kired]

Does the new kickoff rule benefit us, how would it have changed last year's results?

Can our kickers actually kick it in the endzone on a regular basis --- in games? We hear aboutthe potentialbut rarely see it. Also, do we have a legitimate return threat? Interesting stat - we had two returns last year for more than 30 yards. Two. Our opponents on the other hand had at least 7 (I can't find indivual return stats, but there are 7 games where the long return was 30+ yards).

Long returns can be a game changer but they are rare. What was the last game changing kick return we had? I know Berry returned one against GA Tech... which we lost. And he returned one against a homecoming type opponent.

In general it seems like we would benefit from taking kickoffs out of the game.

 

[Todd4State]

Does the new kickoff rule benefit us, how would it have changed last year's results?

Historically, we've had a hard time finding consistent kickers- or I should say kickoff specialist since Jeff Walker left in 1999.

Now our kickoffs that in the past that landed at the five are now more than likely touchbacks and the kickoffs that land at the ten are on the five.

Basically when it comes down to it, we don't have to be quite as good on special teams. And if we do get better, we're going to be markedly better.

Also, it helps us because when LSU or Bama kicks a ball off, now we are less likely to have a stupid return on our part and get pinned down inside the 20.

 

[8dog]

Does the new kickoff rule benefit us, how would it have changed last year's results?

we don't do either side well- return or kick.

If you look at the avg starting field position of the AU game, their starting field position negated our 150 off total yard advantage.

 

[shotgunDawg]

Does the new kickoff rule benefit us, how would it have changed last year's results?

I definitely helps us because much of the depth differences between us and Bama/LSU/Auburn occurs in the 2 deep and special teams. Historically this where they have been running out 4 star young guys, while we run out 2 or 3 star guys or walk-ons. There is absolutely no doubt this is a benefit to us.

 

[EAVdog]

Does the new kickoff rule benefit us, how would it have changed last year's results?

Our opponents will probably be starting on the 25 a lot. I don't think that 5 yards will have an impact.

 

[War Machine Dawg]

Does the new kickoff rule benefit us, how would it have changed last year's results?

As a general rule, part of our "formula" for winning at MState has always included winning the field position battle. The new rules will hurt us in that respect. Sure, our kicker, presumably Devon Bell, will benefit and get us more touchbacks, but that also works the other way. Our opponents will get even more touchbacks, forcing us to drive 80 yards much more regularly. We haven't been an "explosive" offense under Mullen so far, but more of a ground and pound team. It's much harder to drive 80 yards with that approach. This will also put much more pressure on Russell and our WRs to make plays in order for us to effectively drive the long field. The good news is they may be up to the task, but I'll believe it when I see it. Losing Malcolm Johnson for a significant portion of the season is going to be a very big deal.

Also, while our kick return unit hasn't been stellar, I feel we finally have a couple of guys back there, especially Tubby Lewis, that can make something happen with the ball in their hands and help us flip field position more regularly. The new rule will take them out of the equation. I understand player safety is an issue, but football is a dangerous game. Every player out there knows it and willing accepts the risk that he'll suffer a major injury. Trying to protect players from themselves is stupid and ruining the game.

 

[gravedigger]

Does the new kickoff rule benefit us, how would it have changed last year's results?

Gives us a greater possibility of eliminating a big play.
Gives us a greater possibility of getting fewer people hurt.
Allows us to play more inexperienced players on kickoffs.
STILL allows us the big play if someone kicks short.

 

[The Usual Suspect]

Does the new kickoff rule benefit us, how would it have changed last year's results?

Not that is an everyday occurance. The one we did the last time auburn was in Starkville was beautiful.

 

[Todd4State]

Does the new kickoff rule benefit us, how would it have changed last year's results?

And kickers can be squirrely. That's why I prefer to have about 3-4 walk-on and fight it out and then the best guy gets the job and maybe a scholarship.

 

[StevePDawg]

Does the new kickoff rule benefit us, how would it have changed last year's results?

Is he still on the team? I think we need somebody with game experience.

 

[patdog]

Does the new kickoff rule benefit us, how would it have changed last year's results?

Reading between the lines, he didn't make that cutoff but is free to rejoin the team when school starts.