NFL rule change: How the new kickoff rule could affect NFL betting

NFL fans are finally getting a taste of the league's new kickoff rules ahead of the season, but what impact could this have on NFL betting from DraftKings Sportsbook?

Review of the rule

Here's a refresher for those familiar with the NFL's rule change, as well as a primer for those who haven't yet delved into the specifics:

• The kicker lines up at his team’s 35-yard line.
• The other 10 members of the kicking team line up at the opposing team’s 40-yard line.
• The receiving team must have at least nine blockers.
• The receiving team's blockers line up between their 30- and 35-yard lines.
• Play begins when the ball is caught or lands in the “landing zone” or is returned from the end zone.
• Introducing the “landing zone.” This area extends from the receiving team’s 20-yard line to their goal line.
• A ball that lands in the “landing zone” must be returned.
• A ball that fails to reach the receiving team's 20-yard line results in the receiving team gaining possession of the ball at its 40-yard line.
• A ball that reaches the end zone in the air may be returned, or the receiving team may gain possession at its 30-yard line.
• If a kick lands in the “landing zone” but bounces into the end zone, the ball can be returned, or the receiving team can take the ball down for a touchback, which results in possession at their own 20-yard line.
• A kick that goes out of bounds results in the receiving team gaining possession of the ball at their 40-yard line.
• Onside kicks can only be used in the fourth quarter.

Findings to be considered

When it comes to total points, bettors can expect the biggest impact in the first month of the season.

“A 1-2 (point) increase in total points could be worth it early in the season,” said Johnny Avello of DraftKings.

Given the nature of this NFL rule change, special teams could have a more direct impact on scoring. Since this rule appears to make touchdowns from kick returns more likely, betting and props surrounding special teams are expected to see more action early in the season.

Notable D/ST betting option at DraftKings Sportsbook

While bettors at DraftKings Sportsbook can bet on individual kick returners as ANYTIME TOUCHDOWN SCORERS, expanding their reach beyond special teams, there is another option that can lead to a different range of results.

Bettors can also bet on a specific team to score a D/ST touchdown by selecting the ANYTIME TOUCHDOWN SCORERS option. On this play, a defensive touchdown or special team touchdown (e.g. kick return) by the selected team would result in a winning play.

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All odds provided by DraftKings Sports Betting and all odds are subject to change.

All views expressed are my own. I am an employee of DraftKings and am not eligible to participate in public DFS or DKSB contests.