In an NFL first in decades, Cameron Dicker and the Los Angeles Chargers successfully executed a fair catch free kick field goal against the Denver Broncos, showcasing one of football’s most obscure and rarely used rules. The play not only demonstrated Dicker’s incredible skill as a kicker but also reignited widespread interest in the fair catch free kick rule in the NFL.
What Is a Fair Catch Free Kick?
The fair catch free kick is a little-known provision in NFL rules, allowing a team that has made a fair catch to attempt a free kick field goal without defensive opposition. Unlike a traditional field goal attempt, the ball is placed on the ground for a placekick, and the defense must stand ten yards back, unable to rush.
The rule dates back to the early days of football and is considered a remnant of rugby-style play. While the fair catch free kick rule remains in the NFL rulebook, it is rarely utilized due to the specific circumstances required for its execution.
How It Happened: Chargers vs. Denver Broncos
During the Chargers’ Week 15 matchup against the Denver Broncos, the opportunity for a fair catch free kick emerged late in the second quarter. The Broncos punted the ball deep into Chargers’ territory, where Keenan Allen called for a fair catch at the 50-yard line.
Recognizing the unique scenario, Chargers head coach Brandon Staley decided to attempt a fair catch free kick. Cameron Dicker, nicknamed “Dicker the Kicker,” stepped up to take the historic 60-yard free kick field goal.
With the stadium holding its breath, Dicker launched a perfectly struck ball that soared through the uprights as time expired in the half. The successful kick marked one of the rarest feats in NFL history and added a unique highlight to the Chargersโ 2024 schedule.
Significance of the Fair Catch Free Kick
The successful fair catch free kick field goal was a groundbreaking moment for several reasons:
- Rare Usage in the NFL
The fair catch free kick is so rare that many fans and even players are unaware of its existence. The last successful free kick in the NFL occurred in 1976 when Ray Wersching of the San Diego Chargers converted a similar attempt. - Showcasing Football Strategy
The play demonstrated the importance of situational awareness and strategic thinking. By capitalizing on the Broncos’ punt and positioning, the Chargers turned an ordinary play into a historic scoring opportunity. - Highlighting Special Teams Excellence
Cameron Dicker’s accuracy and composure under pressure solidified his reputation as one of the league’s most reliable kickers.
The Rules Behind the Play
To understand how the fair catch free kick works, letโs break down the essential rules:
- Fair Catch Requirement
A team must call for a fair catch, signaling the play is dead, and no yardage advancement can occur. - Opportunity for a Free Kick
Following the fair catch, the receiving team has the option to attempt a free kick field goal from the spot of the catch. - Defense Restrictions
The opposing team must stand ten yards away from the line of scrimmage and cannot rush the kicker. - Scoring Rules
If the kick sails through the uprights, the play is counted as a field goal, awarding the kicking team three points.
Historical Context of the Fair Catch Free Kick
The fair catch free kick rule has its roots in the early 20th century when footballโs rules closely resembled rugby. While the rule has largely fallen out of favor, its inclusion in the modern rulebook adds a layer of unpredictability to the game.
Before Dicker’s successful attempt, the last fair catch free kick in the NFL was an unsuccessful 2013 attempt by Phil Dawson of the San Francisco 49ers. The rarity of such plays highlights their significance when executed successfully.
Reactions from the NFL World
The Chargers’ successful fair catch free kick quickly became a trending topic, with players, coaches, and analysts praising the team’s ingenuity.
- Brandon Staley, Chargers Head Coach
โThis was a testament to our teamโs preparation and awareness. Itโs not every day you get to make history.โ - Cameron Dicker, Chargers Kicker
โI knew the moment was big, but I just focused on the fundamentals. Itโs incredible to be part of such a rare moment in NFL history.โ - Social Media Buzz
Fans and analysts took to social media to debate the ruleโs obscurity and speculate on its future usage in the NFL.
Impact on the Chargers’ Season
The successful fair catch free kick added three crucial points to the Chargersโ total and helped swing momentum in their favor during the Broncos game. It also highlighted the versatility and preparedness of the Chargersโ special teams unit, giving the team an edge in their playoff push.
As the season progresses, the Los Angeles Chargers’ schedule will undoubtedly include more high-pressure moments, but the fair catch free kick will stand out as one of the seasonโs most memorable plays.
Looking Ahead: Will the Fair Catch Free Kick Make a Comeback?
While the fair catch free kick remains a rare occurrence, Cameron Dickerโs historic field goal may inspire other teams to reconsider its potential. Coaches might integrate the rule into their playbooks, emphasizing the importance of situational awareness and special teams strategy.
However, the specific circumstances required for the playโalong with the difficulty of long-distance kicksโwill likely keep it a rarity in the NFL.
FAQs
What is the fair catch free kick rule?
The fair catch free kick rule allows a team that has made a fair catch on a punt or kickoff to attempt a field goal without defensive interference. The ball is placed on the ground for a free kick, and the opposing team must stand 10 yards away from the line of scrimmage. If the kick passes through the uprights, it counts as a field goal, awarding the team three points. This rule is rarely used because it requires specific conditions, such as a fair catch within field goal range.
What is the rarest play in football?
The fair catch free kick is often considered one of the rarest plays in football. Due to the specific requirementsโcalling a fair catch, being within field goal range, and having time to execute the playโit is seldom seen in NFL games. Another contender for the rarest play is the dropkick field goal, which has also been executed only a handful of times in modern football.
Why did the Chargers get a free kick?
The Los Angeles Chargers got a free kick during their game against the Denver Broncos because Keenan Allen called for a fair catch on a punt. By rule, this allowed the Chargers to attempt a fair catch free kick field goal from the spot of the catch. Recognizing the opportunity, the Chargers’ special teams executed the play, resulting in Cameron Dickerโs historic 60-yard field goal.
What is the free kick rule in NFHS?
In the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) football rules, the free kick rule mirrors the NFL’s fair catch free kick rule. After a fair catch on a punt or kickoff, the receiving team has the option to attempt a field goal via a free kick. Like in the NFL, the opposing team must remain 10 yards away, and the kick is taken from the ground without defensive pressure. However, its use is exceedingly rare in high school football due to the lower frequency of long-range kickers at that level.
Conclusion
Cameron Dickerโs fair catch free kick field goal against the Denver Broncos was a defining moment for the Los Angeles Chargers and the NFL as a whole. The play not only showcased the skill of โDicker the Kickerโ but also brought renewed attention to one of footballโs most fascinating rules.
As fans and players continue to discuss the intricacies of the fair catch free kick rule, this historic moment will be remembered as a testament to the unpredictability and excitement of NFL football.
