Football players regularly suffer blows to the head that rival those in automobile accidents, a new Virginia Tech study finds.

The schools' researchers, using sophisticated monitoring equipment attached to players' helmets, found the average player was struck in the head 30 to 50 times per game. They say they're compiling a database of blows to the head among their players, with the hope of measuring how many blows and of what magnitude the brain is able to withstand, the Associated Press reports.

The study leaders say they also hope to learn why some people appear less prone to concussion and other forms of brain injury than others.

The researchers recorded 3,312 hits during 35 practices and 10 games this season, rotating eight specially fitted helmets among 38 players. Offensive linemen suffered the most hits, followed by defensive linemen, running backs, linebackers, wide receivers and defensive backs. Quarterbacks recorded the fewest hits, the AP reports.