How New NFL Helmet Rule Could Affect Raiders

After watching last night’s Bears/Ravens tilt, I emerged worried. When you watch the film, you will notice a particular group that will possess a stronger hold on the game. Without a doubt, the officials, armed with the new rules will adversely affect how games could be decided. If you are the Raiders, below is the that could affect outcome.

Helmet Contact

Granted, on its face, this rule appears logical and intelligent. However, anyone that ever laced up a set of cleats knows that head level rises and falls, depending on situation. As a result, referees will throw the flag with gusto. Under those consequences, I worry about what penalties Marshawn Lynch incurs. First, Lynch runs low any way. What happens on a swing pass if Lynch meets a defender? How can you teach a veteran to alter their game, after playing one way for decades?

Gunna be a long season if this is consistently called a penalty…. pic.twitter.com/z6twH8CpVB

— Kevin Breuer (@KBreuer15) August 3, 2018

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Meanwhile, Paul Guenther’s defense will be forced to adjust to the nebulous nature of contact rules. The Raiders and other teams will need to learn about the ever-shrinking strike zone. In contrast, opposing quarterbacks could use this gray area to their benefit. If a defender realizes that he may need to change his approach, he is thinking. That split second could cost the Raiders. Picture Ben Roethlisberger in the pocket with Mack bearing down him. Then, Mack changes his approach. Thinking can take the aggressive aspect from a defender.

Additionally, secondary play will be affected. Most notably, Karl Joseph will need to adjust his reckless styles. Now, the line between legal and illegal continue to cloud. Joseph, known for his jarring hits will hopefully adapt. If not, the Raiders cannot afford that type of player.

In essence, while this rule affects every team, the Raiders could feel the pinch. Jon Gruden loves hard-nosed, players that can deliver a shot, if needed. Now, learning the new rules over the summer could drastically affect Oakland. Yet, Gruden’s sense of meticulous planning could avoid all of this.