Pads and helmets merely prevent instant death. Without pads and equipment, players would die instantly. The safety features allow players to endure more trauma longer and suffer those problems later in life.
Throw in the size and speed of today's players and it would be brutal. But, death is always a great regulatory factor.
Did you read the whole column under that headline? Please do ... then let’s discuss. There’s some fascinating stuff in there.
I’m glad you mention the size and speed of today’s players.
Years ago, a 300 pound linebacker was rare. Now, it’s very common to see 300+ pound players.
Remember the laws of physics. Force = Mass x Acceleration. If you get hit by a 350 pounder, the force is much greater than if you got by a 240 pounder.
Back in the days of the leather helmets, there weren’t even that many guys over 200 pounds, if I recall correctly.