Expert: Thom Brooks - 1/1/2008

Question
I always thought the kickoff after a Safety was supposed to be a punt.  But today Virginia got 2 safeties against Texas Tech and both times the kickoff was from a 'T'. Is there an option in college FB?  I saw a safety in an NFL game recently and the kickoff was a punt like I expected.

Thanks.

Answer
Terry, Happy New Year!

The team that gave up the Safety can elect to either punt or kickoff, but from the 20 yard line.  It's their choice, depending on the circumstances, like different players can kick better one way or the other.  

Take care,

Thom Brooks
Coastal Football Official
Savannah, Georgia