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A couple of interesting items in yesterday's DMN:

1. The NCAA repealed the "Halo Rule." You know, the rule that required tacklers covering a punt to remain outside of a 2-yard cushion (halo) around an opposing player attempting to field the punt. The rule had become controversial and was enforced inconsistently. Originally, it was a 5-yard penalty, but had been increased to a 10-yard penalty. But, it was a judgment call for officials, who could still assess a 15-yard penalty for flagrant hits. With its repeal, now interfering with a player attempting to catch a punt is a 15-yard penalty. Without the halo it is now up to the return man to decide whether he can safely field a punt. Coach Bennett said that it was a smart move to repeal the rule.

2. Former SMU quarterback Chris Sanders signed with the AFL's Buffalo Destroyers.

Thank goodness!
That Halo rule stunk. Seemed like we got flagged for it every time we even looked at the punt returner last year.

The halo rule was crazy. It is one thing to have a judgment call like pass interference where contact occurs. It is another thing to have a rule where contact doesn't occur.

It is, after all, football, which is a hitting sport. So let the boys hit.

Amen...what a ridiculous rule it was.