Cowboys great Emmitt Smith wasn’t hesitant to voice his concern and displeasure over the rule change that will make it illegal for ball-carriers to lower their helmet going into contact with a defender--Smith believes that it will ultimately make running backs sitting ducks for oncoming defenders--and now, two current Cowboys have come out in opposition to the rule.
For one thing, at least according to cornerback Brandon Carr, the rule will be a hard one to call--and it’s worth noting that this is coming from a defensive player, who won’t be affected by the rule.
“Are they going to call it?” Carr asked, per the Dallas Morning News. “I think they’re trying too hard on that topic. It’s one thing to improve safety but it can’t just challenge the integrity of the game. I don’t see too many running backs out there running with their heads down intentionally trying to spear you or anything with their helmet. Most running backs lower their shoulder anyway. You’re taught to lower the shoulder and bring the boom.”
Receiver Dez Bryant is also, somewhat more predictably, against the rule.
“Truth be told, I’m not trying to run nobody over,” Bryant said. “I’m really just trying to make them miss, trying to score every time I touch the ball. But they keep making these rules, people aren’t going to want to watch football any more. I don’t think that rule is going to last long. There’s going to be so many penalties in this league. Too many guys getting fined. It’s hard for somebody to pay attention to trying to not to use their helmet.”
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