America’s most popular sport is changing.

The NFL has recently been taking measures to protect player safety, enforcing penalties on helmet-to-helmet hits and changing the overall way that the game is played.

But the reaction to these rule changes has been mixed, some arguing that it puts the defensive players at too much of a disadvantage.

“I get protecting the offensive player, but sometimes they are too protected,” said JV Football Coach Paul Laguna.

These penalties do make the defensive player’s job harder, forcing a tough decision that in the speed of the game is tough to make. A helmet-to-helmet hit automatically warrants a flag, which hurts the team during the game, but aiming the hit low could injure the offensive player.

But others see the benefit of the concussion safety rule changes, such as sophomore football player Brock Vaughn.

“Yeah, it puts defensive players at a disadvantage, but it’s important to keep players safe for game safety and integrity” said Vaughn. “If they use good form then there are no worries.”

Another rule change that the NFL has been considering is eliminating kickoffs because of the increased amount of injuries that happen on these exciting plays. In fact, they already have taken the exciting opening play out of the Pro Bowl.

But these plays are a big part of the game, and fans like Junior Football Trent Brown are not too excited about the idea.

“It’s stupid!” said Brown. “Kickoffs are an important part of the game and can change the momentum.”

While many can argue about if the rules are messing up the game or not, many also dispute the long term effects on the players, such as Junior Seau.

Seau, is one of a list of several former NFL athletes that committed suicide, and the debate comes up if concussions played a role. But all can agree that it is a tragedy, such as Junior Football Player Alex Vercallone.

“I was surprised, it was hard to believe” said Vercallone. “It puts things in perspective.”

Vercallone is one of many players in WS that has gotten a concussion. In fact, out of 20 players asked, 13 of them had concussions in the past.

But rest assured, the football team is taking precautions to limit these numbers, just like the NFL. Players are taught by coaches to tackle with their heads up. And new technology is being developed every day.

The game is changing, for better or worse. But player safety is the number one concern, and these rules are meant to help.

“People need to take this seriously,” said Vercallone. “If the league doesn’t take action, then more players will be at risk.”