Ravens running back Ray Rice and fullback Vonta Leach have the same reaction to the NFL’s new rule against runners delivering shots with the tops of their helmets as practically every other NFL running back: They don’t like it.
But just as players have adjusted to other safety rules, both Rice and Leach say they’re ready to adjust to this one, too.
“I don’t like it,” Rice told BaltimoreRavens.com. “I’m just telling you right now, there’s not going to be a guy that’s going to be able to get a free lick on me and think it’s alright. I will defend my case, and I will defend myself as a runner.”
Rice said he doesn’t plan to change the way he plays, and yet at the same time he realizes that he can’t afford to cost his team 15 yards by using his helmet as a weapon.
“I don’t like it, but at the same time I’m not one to complain. I feel like you either adapt to the change or you get weeded out,” Rice said.
Leach had a similar sentiment.
“It’s crazy,” Leach said, “but I think we’ll adjust to it and we’ll overcome it.”
The players always adjust. Whether they like the rules the owners pass or not.