The NCAA Playing Rules Oversight Panel has approved an experimental rule in football to allow the Ivy League, in conference games only, to kick off from the 40-yard line during the 2016 season.
The experimental rule, which was approved during PROP’s conference call on Wednesday, also will move the touchback spot to the 20-yard line.
Currently, kickoffs are conducted from the 35-yard line and the ball is placed at the 25-yard line after a touchback.
The Ivy League is interested in the experimental rule to see if altering the kickoff location will bolster safety by increasing the number of touchbacks.
The Ivy League will collect data and report the findings to the NCAA Football Rules Committee in February.
