The Rule That Allowed the Chargers to Kick a Field Goal on an Untimed Down

Introduction:

Have you ever watched a football game and seen something so unusual that it left you scratching your head? That’s exactly what happened during a recent Chargers vs. Broncos game when the Chargers executed a rare play. Thanks to an obscure NFL rule, the Chargers managed to kick a field goal on an untimed down, leaving fans and analysts buzzing1. Let’s dive into the details of this fascinating rule and how it played out in the game.

The Fair-Catch Kick Rule:

The rule in question is known as the fair-catch kick. This rule allows a team that successfully hauls in a fair catch on a punt to attempt a free kick on the next play1. The kicker gets to attempt a field goal from the spot where the ball was caught, with the defense required to line up 10 yards away and not allowed to block the kick. This means the kicker has a clear shot at the goalposts1.

How It Played Out:

During the game, the Chargers’ returner, Derius Davis, called for a fair catch at his own 38-yard line. However, the Broncos were called for fair-catch interference, which added 15 yards to the Chargers’ position1. With the ball now at the Broncos’ 47-yard line and no time left on the clock, Chargers’ coach Jim Harbaugh decided to take advantage of the fair-catch kick rule. Kicker Cameron Dicker stepped up and successfully converted a 57-yard field goal, becoming the first player to make a fair-catch kick since 19761.

Why It’s Rare:

Fair-catch kicks are extremely rare in the NFL. Most fair catches occur too far from field goal range, and even when they do happen within range, teams usually prefer to run a play to get closer to the goalposts1. The risk of missing the kick and giving the opposing team good field position is often too great. This is why Dicker’s successful attempt was such a standout moment.

Conclusion:

The Chargers’ use of the fair-catch kick rule was a brilliant strategic move that caught many by surprise. It’s a reminder that even in a game as well-known as football, there are still hidden gems and little-known rules that can turn the tide. Do you think more teams will start using this rule, or will it remain a rare play?