Longer NFL Field Goals: Why The Change?

Meta: Explore the factors behind the increasing length of NFL field goals and the changes impacting kicking in the current season.

Introduction

The trend of longer NFL field goals is undeniable. You only have to watch a few games to see kickers routinely attempting, and often making, kicks from distances that were once considered almost impossible. This isn't just a coincidence; it's a result of several factors converging to change the landscape of kicking in professional football. This article will dive into the key reasons why field goal distances are increasing, exploring everything from the evolution of kicking techniques to rule changes and the impact of specialized training. We'll also look at the implications of these changes for the game itself and what the future might hold for NFL kickers.

The Evolution of Kicking Technique and Training

One key reason for the increase in longer NFL field goals lies in the evolution of kicking technique and training methods. Gone are the days when kickers were simply converted soccer players or afterthoughts on the roster. Today's kickers are highly specialized athletes who dedicate themselves to honing their craft through rigorous training and technique refinement. This section will explore how changes in technique, training, and the use of technology have contributed to the rise of the long-distance field goal.

Modern kicking technique emphasizes power and efficiency, and kickers now utilize a more angular approach to the ball, generating greater leg speed and a cleaner strike. This technique, often referred to as the soccer-style kick, allows for more consistent contact and a higher trajectory, which is crucial for maximizing distance. Kickers are also focusing more on flexibility and core strength, allowing them to generate more power from their entire body, not just their legs.

Specialized Coaching and Training Regimens

The development of specialized kicking coaches and training regimens has also played a significant role. Kickers now have access to coaches who have a deep understanding of the biomechanics of kicking and can provide individualized instruction to optimize technique. These coaches often use video analysis and other technologies to break down each kick and identify areas for improvement. Training regimens now incorporate a variety of drills designed to improve leg strength, flexibility, and accuracy. They also emphasize the mental aspect of kicking, helping kickers develop the confidence and focus needed to perform under pressure. The focus on recovery and injury prevention has also become more prominent, with kickers incorporating stretching, massage, and other therapies into their routines to stay healthy and perform at their best.

The Impact of Technology on Kicking

Technology has also revolutionized kicking in the NFL. Kickers now use advanced tools to analyze their technique, track their progress, and identify areas for improvement. High-speed cameras capture kicks from multiple angles, allowing coaches and kickers to break down the motion frame by frame. This detailed analysis helps them identify inefficiencies in technique and make adjustments to improve accuracy and distance. GPS tracking systems are also used to measure a kicker's leg speed and ball trajectory, providing valuable data for optimizing performance. The use of specialized kicking simulators allows kickers to practice in a controlled environment, replicating game-like conditions and helping them develop consistency. All these technological advancements have collectively contributed to the increase in longer field goal attempts and successes.

Rule Changes and the Emphasis on Scoring

The increasing length of NFL field goals is also related to rule changes implemented by the league, as well as the overall emphasis on scoring in the modern game. The NFL is constantly evolving, and changes to the rules can have a significant impact on how the game is played. In recent years, several rule changes have indirectly contributed to the increased importance of field goals and, consequently, the willingness of teams to attempt longer kicks. This section will explore these specific rule adjustments and their influence on field goal strategy.

Rule Changes Affecting Field Position

One significant rule change has been the emphasis on player safety, particularly on kickoffs. Changes to kickoff rules, designed to reduce high-speed collisions, have resulted in more touchbacks and better field position for the receiving team. This means that offenses are often starting their drives closer to midfield, increasing the likelihood of getting into field goal range. Additionally, penalties such as defensive holding or pass interference can significantly improve field position, making a long field goal attempt a more attractive option. This improved field position, coupled with the increased accuracy of kickers, makes attempting longer field goals a more strategic decision.

The Four-Down Territory Mentality

Another factor is the increasing willingness of teams to go for it on fourth down, especially in their own territory or near midfield. This “four-down territory” mentality means that teams are less likely to punt the ball away and more likely to try to convert a first down. However, if they fail to convert, they may find themselves in a situation where a long field goal attempt is their best option. The analytics revolution in football has further fueled this trend, with teams increasingly relying on data to inform their decisions on fourth down. If the numbers suggest that a long field goal attempt has a reasonable chance of success, teams are more likely to trust their kicker and go for the points.

The Growing Importance of Field Goals in Scoring

Finally, the overall emphasis on scoring in the modern NFL has elevated the importance of field goals. In a league where games are often decided by a single score, the ability to consistently make field goals, even from long distances, can be the difference between winning and losing. Teams are investing more resources in finding and developing kickers who can be reliable scoring options, and this has led to a greater emphasis on the long field goal. The increased value placed on scoring, combined with rule changes and evolving team strategies, has created an environment where longer field goals are not only possible but often a crucial part of a team's offensive game plan.

The Mental Game and Pressure Kicking

The mental aspect of kicking is crucial for success, especially when it comes to longer NFL field goals. Even with the best technique and physical ability, a kicker must possess the mental fortitude to perform under pressure. This section delves into the mental challenges faced by kickers and the strategies they use to overcome them. We will explore how kickers prepare mentally for high-pressure situations, how they handle the inevitable misses, and the role of mental toughness in consistently making long field goals.

Visualization and Mental Rehearsal

One of the key mental skills for kickers is visualization. Before a game, and even before each kick, kickers will often visualize themselves successfully making the kick. They'll imagine the snap, the hold, the ball striking their foot, and the ball sailing through the uprights. This mental rehearsal helps to build confidence and reduce anxiety. By mentally preparing for the kick, kickers can create a sense of familiarity with the situation, making it less daunting when they're on the field in a high-pressure moment. Visualization is a powerful tool that helps kickers stay focused and execute their technique effectively.

Handling Pressure and Expectations

Kickers face immense pressure, especially when attempting long field goals in critical game situations. The weight of the team's hopes often rests on their shoulders, and the expectations can be overwhelming. Successful kickers develop strategies for managing this pressure, such as focusing on the process rather than the outcome. They break down the kick into smaller, manageable steps and concentrate on executing each step correctly. This helps them stay present in the moment and avoid getting caught up in the potential consequences of a miss. Another key skill is the ability to compartmentalize mistakes. Even the best kickers miss from time to time, and it's crucial to be able to move on from a miss and focus on the next kick. Mental resilience is a hallmark of elite kickers.

Building Confidence and Routine

Confidence is essential for making long field goals. Kickers build confidence through consistent practice, successful performances in games, and a strong belief in their abilities. They also develop routines that help them stay focused and calm under pressure. These routines may involve specific pre-kick rituals, such as taking a certain number of steps back from the ball or visualizing the kick in a particular way. By establishing a consistent routine, kickers can create a sense of predictability and control, even in the most chaotic game situations. The mental game is just as important as the physical game for kickers, and mastering the mental aspect is crucial for consistently making those long, game-changing field goals.

Conclusion

The increasing length of NFL field goals is a testament to the evolution of kicking technique, the impact of rule changes, and the importance of the mental game. As kickers continue to refine their skills and teams place a greater emphasis on scoring, we can expect to see even more long-distance attempts in the future. The blend of athleticism, technique, and mental fortitude required to make these kicks makes them one of the most exciting and critical aspects of the modern game.

To further understand the nuances of NFL kicking, consider researching specific kicking techniques and training methodologies used by professional kickers. Exploring the history of rule changes related to special teams can also provide valuable context to the trends we're seeing today.

FAQ

What are some of the key techniques used by NFL kickers to increase their range?

NFL kickers use a combination of techniques, including a more angular approach to the ball, generating greater leg speed, and focusing on core strength and flexibility. They also utilize a higher trajectory to maximize distance and employ specialized coaching and video analysis to refine their technique. These modern approaches have significantly increased the range and accuracy of field goal attempts.

How have rule changes impacted the length of field goals in the NFL?

Rule changes, particularly those related to kickoffs and player safety, have indirectly contributed to the increase in field goal attempts. Changes to kickoff rules have resulted in better field position for offenses, making long field goal attempts a more strategic option. Additionally, the emphasis on scoring in the modern NFL has elevated the importance of field goals, making them a crucial part of a team's offensive game plan.

What role does mental toughness play in a kicker's ability to make long field goals?

The mental aspect of kicking is crucial, especially under pressure. Kickers use visualization techniques, focus on the process rather than the outcome, and develop routines to stay calm and confident. The ability to handle pressure, compartmentalize mistakes, and maintain mental resilience are key attributes of successful NFL kickers.

Are there any risks associated with attempting longer field goals?

While longer field goals offer the potential for scoring points, they also carry risks. A missed long field goal can result in poor field position for the kicking team, potentially giving the opponent an advantage. Teams must carefully weigh the risk-reward factors when deciding whether to attempt a long field goal, considering factors such as game situation, weather conditions, and the kicker's accuracy from that distance.

How might the trend of longer field goals continue to evolve in the NFL?

As kicking techniques continue to evolve and teams place an even greater emphasis on scoring, it's likely that we'll see even more long-distance field goal attempts in the future. Advancements in training methods, technology, and the understanding of kicking biomechanics may further increase the range and accuracy of kickers. However, rule changes and strategic adjustments could also impact the trend, making it an area to watch closely in the coming years.