The Effect of Play Type and Collision Closing Distance on Head Impact Biomechanics

Football accounts for 55% of all concussions that collegiate athletes sustain. Kickoffs and punts have a greater risk of concussion than rushing and passing plays. The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of special team plays and closing distance of collisions on head impact biomechanics. Forty-six collegiate football players participated in the study. We used real-time data collection instrumentation to record head impact biomechanics during games for the three following play types: special teams, offense, and defense. Collisions occurring on special teams over long closing distances were the most severe impacts while collisions occurring on special teams and defense over short closing distances were the least severe impacts. Our findings indicate that impacts following long closing distances result in more severe head impacts; therefore, in order to decrease the severity of collisions in football the ability for long closing distances prior to impacts should be addressed.Master of Art