Cover?

[Phreak]

Pretty sure this isn't true. One of the strategies for Binding coil turn 1 that people have used involves a paladin covering the main tank and using hallowed ground. It is possible though that you take damage based on the defense of your cover target, though... in which case covering a mage while using a cooldown could seem like you are getting hit for the same as if you yourself were taking unmitigated damage.

Hmm, I wonder if testing has been done on this?

Hallowed ground does not prevent cover damage or reduce it in any way, the damage the target would have taken equals the damage you WILL take when you cover someone. It's obvious you haven't tested this at all.