FOXBOROUGH — It’s the NFL pass-rush version of the old kids story of Goofus and Gallant.
Even though he knows the new rule of putting your full body weight on the quarterback are a point of emphasis around the league, Goofus doesn’t take it seriously and pancakes the quarterback, leading to a penalty.
Gallant knows referees are paying close attention to the new rule, and even though he knows they are dicey to begin with, acts accordingly.
These are tough times for pass rushers, as new rules have made them especially mindful of how they go about getting after the quarterback. The requirement of not putting your full weight on a quarterback has led to some questionable calls, as well as injuries: Miami defensive end William Hayes tore his ACL and was lost for the season while sacking Oakland quarterback Derek Carr and trying to avoid landing with all of his weight on the quarterback. It’s ultimately led to teams running safe tackling drills when it comes to the pass rush, something that’s been met with varying degrees of acceptance by defensive linemen.
Rams defensive line practicing sacking the quarterback, without drawing a penalty. Ndamukong Suh, everyone. pic.twitter.com/dJE99fWadp
— Lindsey Thiry (@LindseyThiry) October 4, 2018