NCAA moving kickoffs to 35-yard line

Indianapolis, IN (Sports Network) - The NCAA has approved a series of rules changes for the 2012 football season, including one that will shift kickoffs to the 35-yard line instead of the 30.

The change, one the NFL instituted prior to last season, was approved by the Playing Rules Oversight Panel and is intended to enhance player safety. The panel also said the running start by players on the kicking team will be limited to five yards.

Also, touchbacks on free kicks will be moved from the 20 to the 25-yard line, an alteration aimed at encouraging more touchbacks.

Another new guideline involves a player who looses his helmet during a play. The situation will be treated like an injury, with the individual leaving the game for one play.

There are also new rules regarding blocking below the waist and blocking on punt returns, while players will also be prohibited from leaping over blockers in attempt to block a punt.

The Sports Network