NFL Field Goals: Why They're Getting Longer

Meta: Explore why NFL field goals are getting longer, the factors driving this trend, and how recent rule changes impact the game.

Introduction

The increasing length of NFL field goals is a noticeable trend in modern football. This isn't just a statistical anomaly; it reflects changes in player training, kicking techniques, and even strategic approaches to the game. Over the past few decades, kickers have become increasingly accurate from longer distances, leading to a gradual shift in what constitutes a "makeable" field goal. We're going to dive into the various elements that are driving this shift and what rule changes may have influenced these trends.

This article explores the factors contributing to this trend, from the evolution of kicking techniques and player specialization to rule changes and strategic decision-making by coaches. We’ll also examine the implications of longer field goals on game strategy and the overall viewing experience. Understanding these dynamics provides valuable insight into the ongoing evolution of professional football and how specialists continue to shape the sport.

The Evolution of Kicking Techniques and Training

One key reason for the increased length of successful NFL field goals is the evolution of kicking techniques and training methodologies. Improved kicking technique combined with specialized training has allowed kickers to generate more power and accuracy. Years ago, placekickers were often players who filled other roles on the team, perhaps a receiver or running back who could kick adequately. Today, the trend is towards dedicated specialists who focus solely on kicking, allowing them to hone their skills with intense focus and dedication.

The shift toward the soccer-style kick, pioneered by players like Garo Yepremian in the 1960s, has had a profound impact. This technique, which involves approaching the ball from an angle and using the instep of the foot, generates more power and control compared to the traditional straight-on approach. Modern kickers also benefit from advances in sports science and training technology. They utilize video analysis, biomechanical assessments, and customized training programs to optimize their technique and build the necessary strength and flexibility.

Specialized Training Regimens

• Strength and Conditioning: Kickers now engage in rigorous strength and conditioning programs specifically designed to build leg strength and core stability. These exercises often focus on explosive power, which is crucial for generating the force needed to kick long field goals.
• Technique Refinement: Coaches and kicking consultants use video analysis to break down a kicker's motion frame by frame, identifying areas for improvement. This meticulous approach helps kickers fine-tune their technique for maximum efficiency and accuracy.
• Mental Preparation: The mental aspect of kicking is also emphasized. Kickers work with sports psychologists to develop strategies for managing pressure and maintaining focus in high-stakes situations. Visualization and mental rehearsal are common techniques used to prepare for game-day kicks.

This specialized training, coupled with the improved kicking technique, has led to a noticeable increase in the range and accuracy of NFL field goal kickers. The transformation is a testament to the dedication and expertise that modern specialists bring to the game.

Impact of Rule Changes on Field Goal Attempts

Rule changes in the NFL have significantly impacted field goal attempts, contributing to the observed increase in length. These rule modifications have influenced coaching decisions and kicking strategies. For example, rule changes related to the spot of the kickoff and touchbacks can affect field position, influencing the decision to attempt a long field goal versus punting.

The movement of the kickoff spot from the 30-yard line to the 35-yard line in 2011, along with the touchback rule placing the ball at the 25-yard line, has reduced the number of kickoff returns. This indirectly leads to teams starting drives further downfield, potentially putting them in situations where a longer field goal attempt is a more viable option. Additionally, changes to the extra point rules, moving the kick back to the 15-yard line in 2015, have made the PAT less automatic, influencing teams to consider field goal range and accuracy more seriously.

Specific Rule Adjustments

• Kickoff Spot: Moving the kickoff spot to the 35-yard line and touchbacks to the 25-yard line has improved field position for the receiving team, reducing the incentive for risky kickoff returns and placing teams in better scoring positions.
• Extra Point Distance: The longer extra point distance adds an element of risk, making accurate field goal kicking even more valuable. Coaches are now more likely to go for two-point conversions in certain situations or to rely on their kicker for a longer field goal attempt rather than risk a missed extra point.
• Protection Rules: Changes designed to protect kickers from roughing the kicker penalties have made teams more confident in sending their kickers out for longer attempts, knowing they have additional protection from defenders. These rules reduce the risk of injury and potential penalties that could shift field position significantly.

These rule changes, while intended to enhance player safety and improve the flow of the game, have inadvertently contributed to the increase in longer field goal attempts. Coaches are continually adapting their strategies to leverage these rules and maximize their scoring opportunities, thus making the longer field goal a more common sight in the modern NFL.

Strategic Decision-Making and Coaching Philosophies

Strategic decision-making and evolving coaching philosophies play a significant role in why NFL field goals are getting longer. Coaches are increasingly willing to attempt longer field goals, particularly with the rise of more accurate kickers and data-driven approaches to game management. Analytics now provide deeper insights into the probability of success from various distances, allowing coaches to make more informed decisions based on expected point value.

The shift towards more aggressive play-calling is also a factor. Coaches are less hesitant to go for it on fourth down in certain situations, but when they choose to kick, they’re often willing to try from further out. This shift is fueled by a greater understanding of the risks and rewards associated with different decisions, facilitated by advanced statistical analysis. For example, a team might attempt a 50-yard field goal in a situation where, historically, punting might have been the more common choice, but analytics suggest that the expected points gained from the field goal attempt outweigh the potential downside.

Data-Driven Strategies

• Expected Points: Coaches now use expected points (EP) models to assess the value of different play calls. These models consider factors such as field position, down and distance, and time remaining to estimate the average number of points a team is likely to score from a given situation. This analysis helps them determine whether a field goal attempt, even a long one, is the optimal choice.
• Win Probability: Win probability models also play a role in decision-making. These models calculate the likelihood of winning the game based on the current score, time remaining, and field position. Coaches use this information to make strategic calls that maximize their team's chances of victory, sometimes favoring a long field goal attempt if it significantly improves their win probability.
• Kicker Performance Metrics: Teams closely monitor their kickers' performance from various distances, using this data to inform their decision-making. If a kicker has a high success rate from beyond 50 yards, coaches are more likely to send him out for those attempts, even in critical situations.

In conclusion, the willingness of coaches to rely on longer field goals is a testament to their evolving strategic thinking and the increasing sophistication of their analytical tools. The rise of data-driven decision-making has empowered coaches to make bolder choices, contributing significantly to the lengthening trend of field goal attempts in the NFL.

The Impact of Player Specialization on Kicking Performance

Player specialization is another crucial element contributing to the increasing length of NFL field goals. The modern NFL emphasizes specialized roles, and kickers are now highly trained athletes dedicated solely to kicking. This focus allows them to refine their technique, build specific muscle groups, and develop the mental fortitude required to perform under pressure.

Decades ago, many kickers were also tasked with other positions, such as punter or even a position player on offense or defense. Today, the vast majority of NFL teams employ dedicated kickers who can devote all their time and energy to perfecting their craft. This specialization has led to a significant improvement in kicking accuracy and range. Kickers now work with specialized coaches and trainers who understand the biomechanics of kicking and can tailor training programs to optimize performance.

Key Aspects of Specialization

• Dedicated Training: Specialist kickers engage in year-round training programs designed to build leg strength, flexibility, and kicking precision. They spend countless hours honing their technique and working on consistency.
• Expert Coaching: Kickers benefit from the guidance of specialized coaches who understand the nuances of kicking and can provide individualized instruction. These coaches often have extensive experience working with kickers at various levels of the sport.
• Mental Toughness: The mental aspect of kicking is just as important as the physical. Specialist kickers work on developing mental toughness and the ability to perform under pressure. They practice techniques for managing anxiety and staying focused in high-stakes situations.

The rise of player specialization in the NFL has had a profound impact on kicking performance. By dedicating themselves solely to kicking, these athletes have been able to push the boundaries of what is possible, consistently making longer and more challenging field goals. This trend is likely to continue as teams place an increasing emphasis on specialized roles and the value of a reliable kicker.

Conclusion

The increasing length of NFL field goals is a multifaceted trend driven by several factors, including advancements in kicking techniques, rule changes, strategic decision-making, and the specialization of players. All these elements have converged to create an environment where longer field goals are not only possible but also strategically advantageous. As the game continues to evolve, it’s likely that we’ll see further innovations in kicking and strategic play-calling, potentially pushing the boundaries of field goal range even further. To delve deeper into your team's specific kicking stats, consider exploring resources like Pro Football Reference or your team's official website for player statistics and performance data.

FAQ

Why are kickers in the NFL getting so much better?

NFL kickers are improving due to a combination of specialized training, refined kicking techniques (like the soccer-style kick), and a greater focus on player specialization. Modern kickers benefit from advanced coaching, sports science, and mental preparation, all contributing to their enhanced performance and consistency.

How have rule changes affected field goal length?

Rule changes, such as moving the kickoff spot and adjusting touchback rules, have indirectly influenced field goal length by improving field position and altering coaching strategies. The longer extra point distance has also made accurate field goal kicking more valuable, leading to a greater reliance on kickers for scoring opportunities.

What is the longest field goal ever made in the NFL?

The longest field goal in NFL history is 66 yards, made by Justin Tucker of the Baltimore Ravens in 2021. This record highlights the incredible range and accuracy of modern NFL kickers and the ongoing evolution of kicking performance in the league.

How do coaches decide when to attempt a long field goal?

Coaches use a combination of factors, including field position, time remaining, score, and the kicker's success rate from various distances, to decide when to attempt a long field goal. They also consider analytical data such as expected points and win probability to make strategic decisions that maximize their team's chances of success.