Heads up players: The NCAA 2018 changes for fair catch and blocking rules have been approved. The NCAA Playing Rules Oversight Panel approved new rules that go into effect for 2018. These rules were approved Friday, April 13, 2018. The changes include fair catch and blocking rules.
NCAA 2018 Changes: Fair Catch, Block Rules Overview
Teams that signal for a fair catch inside their own 25-yard line on kickoffs will now be awarded a touchback.
They also approved the prohibition of blocks below the waist by offensive players more than 5 yards from the line of scrimmage. These blocks must take place from the front side, except when done by interior offensive linemen.
They made other rule changes including the 40-second play clock being used after touchdowns and after kickoffs, and a 10-second runoff when instant replay overturns an on-field ruling with less than 1 minute remaining in each half.
Visit ESPN for more details of the NCAA 2018 changes to fair catch and blocking rules.