Letters

Over the years I've noticed a change in how fans react to the "big hit." There is rarely polite applause if a woozy player is lucky enough to get up, but there's always a celebration when he goes down. We as spectators seem to demand this type of play, which in turn increases the players' desire to execute these unrepentant, concussion-causing hits.

Joseph W. Cottrell, Macomb, Mich.

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There is only one way to seriously cut down on concussions in football (Concussions, Nov. 1): Require all players at all levels to wear leather helmets without face guards. It may not make for exciting hits, but incidents of head injuries will drop very quickly.

Jim Pileggi, Galena, Md.

When I read of players' objecting to rule changes that would protect them against overly aggressive hits, I wonder if the damage from concussive events isn't already apparent.

Steven Whitehead

West Des Moines, Iowa

So let me make sure I understand this: The NFL is working diligently to protect players' safety and has revamped its rules to castigate infractors in an effort to avoid catastrophic injuries, while at the same time it is considering extending the regular season to 18 games? Wow.

Gustavo A. Ruiz de Chavez