Seahawks vs Chiefs, 3 things to watch for
By Dan Viens
THE NEW KICKOFF RULE:
The NFL is trying out a new rule this year intended to discourage kick returns and in turn limit the potential for injuries. Now, if a team takes a touchback they’re rewarded by getting the ball on the 25 instead of the 20 as has been the case for decades. But teams may have found a loophole. In early preseason action we’ve seen some kickers try and place the ball higher and shorter, encouraging return attempts as they try and pin their opponents deep.
The Seahawks may be well positioned to be among the best in the league if they choose this tactic. Steven Hauschka is an accurate directional kicker, and the Hawks usually have one of the fastest and best kick coverage units in the NFL. It’ll be interesting to see just how they choose to approach this rule change.
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Today’s preseason contest will likely look like a glorified scrimmage as much as a game between two finely-tuned playoff contenders. Expect turnovers, penalties and sloppy play. Seahawks coaches would probably be ecstatic if they come out of this with no injuries, and a clearer view of how to put their offensive line together well in advance of their September 11th regular season opener against Miami.