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NFL's new helmet rule already causing controversy in HOF game

Joe Robbins / Getty Images Sport / Getty

The NFL is implementing a new helmet rule for the 2018 season. And based on the Hall of Fame game between the Chicago Bears and the Baltimore Ravens, the league still has significant kinks to work out.

Under the new rule, it's a penalty if a player lowers his head to initiate and make contact with the helmet of an opponent.

Several such penalties were called during the first preseason game of the 2018 season, even though the hits didn't appear to be intentional helmet-to-helmet collisions.

Related: Eagles players left confused after meeting with refs on new helmet rule

The NFL recently released a fact sheet and an educational video to further clarify the new rule.

Ex-NFL offensive lineman Geoff Schwartz attempted to ease concerns on social media and calm those who were already predicting a regular season filled with flags.

While Schwartz is likely right, the last thing the league needs is more confusion regarding its rulebook - especially after finally trying to fix the much-maligned catch rule this offseason.

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