Madden 24: Revised NFL kickoff rule may make Scum Kick ineffective

Each NFL offseason brings forth new rules aimed at enhancing player safety or improving the game experience. The 2023 offseason was no exception, with several notable rule changes implemented by the NFL. Among these changes, the introduction of the fair catch rule on kickoffs stands out. This rule is expected to make its way into Madden 24 in due time.

So, what exactly does the new NFL Fair Catch Kickoff Rule entail? Essentially, any ball fair caught inside the 25-yard line will automatically result in the ball being placed at the 25-yard line. Therefore, if a fair catch is made at the one-yard line during a kickoff, it will be treated as a touchback, and the ball will be brought out to the 25-yard line.

The primary motivation behind the NFL's decision to implement this rule is player safety. According to the league, this rule change will initially be in effect for one season. However, if it proves successful, there is a possibility of it becoming a permanent fixture in the years to come, similar to the ghost runner rule introduced in MLB, which was initially intended to be temporary but has since become permanent.

While this rule change may not have a significant impact on actual NFL games, since kickers often kick the ball out of the end zone for touchbacks, its implementation in Madden 24 could potentially have a substantial influence on gameplay.

In Madden video games, kickoffs often involve strategic decisions regarding how to defend against returns. One particular tactic is known as the "Scum Kick," where the ball is kicked high and aimed inside the 15-yard line. This forces the opposing team's fullback to field the kick, making them more vulnerable to fumbles or limited yardage gains. However, with the introduction of the new NFL rule, this tactic would no longer be effective.

EA Sports, the creators of Madden, typically strive to incorporate the latest rule changes into the game. It would come as a surprise if Madden 24 did not feature this new rule change from the start. Even if it is not initially included, it is highly likely that the rule will be added during the season. Moreover, considering the complaints surrounding the "Scum Kick," EA Sports has additional motivation to implement this new rule.

Madden NFL 24 is expected to be released in August 2023. In previous versions of the game, Madden coins, also known as MUT (Madden Ultimate Team) coins, are a form of virtual currency used to purchase items and players for your team in the game's Ultimate Team mode.

Madden 24 will likely also feature Madden 24 Coins as a form of in-game currency. MMOexp has been the biggest brand in madden game marketplace already for years. When Madden 24 is released, I believe many people will choose MMOexp to buy MUT 24 coins.