Sports

High School Football Rule Changes Attempt to Tackle Concussion Issue

The National Federation of State High School Associations announced 10 rule changes recently.

Written by Samantha Turner

Following in the NFL’s footsteps, high school football will have a new “targeting” penalty next season, in an attempt to reduce head injuries.

The National Federation of State High School Associations Football Rules Committee announced 10 overall rule changes recently that will impact Massachusetts teams.

“Targeting,” which will be a 15-yard penalty, is defined as: “An act of taking aim and initiating contact to an opponent above the shoulders with the helmet, forearm, hand, fist, elbow or shoulders.”

The new rules also tighten the definition of a “defenseless player” and give kickoff players less of a run-up to the line in attempts to reduce injuries.

See all 10 rule changes >>

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