What Is a Fair Catch Kick in American Football?
The fair catch kick is an intriguing rule that allows a team to attempt a free kick from the spot of a fair catch. Imagine you’re playing football and your opponent catches the ball, but they decide to give it back to you. This is where the fair catch kick comes into play – a rare yet strategic move that can change the course of the game!
The Origins and Rules
Have you ever wondered how this rule came about? The fair catch kick has its roots in rugby football’s goal from mark, which was abolished in both major rugby codes. In American football, it allows a team to choose between a place kick or drop kick if they make a fair catch when the clock expires at the end of either half.
The Play Dynamics
When can you attempt a fair catch kick? The rule states that the opposing team must line up at least ten yards beyond the spot of the ball before the attempt is made. At the professional level, kicking tees cannot be used; however, they are permitted up to two inches in height at the high school level.
The Rarity and Strategy
Is a fair catch kick really worth considering? The rule has been considered obscure and rarely invoked. Most fair catches are made outside of field goal range, making it an unlikely play for most teams. However, in the NFL rulebook, the fair catch kick is not considered a free kick but rather a distinct type of kick.
The NFL and NCAA Differences
How does this rule differ between leagues? The fair catch kick has been present in the NFL rulebook since its inception and remains in the NFHS (National Federation of State High School Associations) rulebook. However, it is not legal in NCAA football, where it was abolished in 1950.
The Unlikely but Strategic Play
When might a team consider attempting a fair catch kick? A unique set of circumstances must be present for this play to be viable. The team attempting the kick must be tied or behind by three points or fewer near the end of the fourth quarter, and the coach may still decline to attempt it.
A Notable Example
Do you remember when Bill Belichick declined a 75-yard fair catch kick in Super Bowl LI? Despite the risk of a return touchdown, he chose not to take that chance. Art McNally said most teams attempt touchdowns unless time is left. Successful attempts are rare, with only seven out of 27 recorded tries succeeding.
The Longest and Most Successful Kicks
What’s the longest successful fair catch kick in history? The longest successful kick was 57 yards made by Cameron Dicker on December 19, 2024. This highlights how rare but impactful such a play can be.
The fair catch kick is a rule that adds an element of surprise and strategy to American football. While it may not be the most common play, its presence in the rulebook ensures that teams always have options when they need them most.
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This page is based on the article Fair catch kick published in Wikipedia (retrieved on December 20, 2024) and was automatically summarized using artificial intelligence.
