In American football, a missed field goal attempt can lead to various outcomes depending on the situation. While the immediate result is a loss of possession for the kicking team, the subsequent play unfolds with unique possibilities. So, Can You Return A Missed Field Goal?
Returning a Missed Field Goal: Fact or Fiction?
Yes, a missed field goal can indeed be returned! If the ball travels beyond the end zone or goes out of bounds in the end zone without being touched by the defending team, it’s a touchback, and the opposing team starts their drive from the 20-yard line. However, if the ball remains in play after a miss within the field of play, it becomes a live ball. This means the defending team has the opportunity to pick it up and attempt a return, much like a kickoff or punt return.
The Risk and Reward of Field Goal Returns
Returning a missed field goal is a high-risk, high-reward play. On the one hand, a successful return can result in excellent field position for the defending team, potentially flipping the field and shifting momentum in their favor.
On the other hand, there are significant risks involved:
- Turnover: Fumbling the ball during the return attempt would give the kicking team another opportunity to recover and potentially score.
- Poor Field Position: If the return is unsuccessful and tackled deep in their own territory, the defending team would start their offensive drive with poor field position, making it harder to score.
- Penalties: Illegal blocks or holding penalties during the return can also negate any positive yardage gained and push the defending team further back.
Coaching Decisions and Strategic Considerations
Coaches weigh multiple factors when deciding whether to attempt a return on a missed field goal:
- Time Remaining: If time is running out, the risk of a return might be too great, and opting for a touchback and a chance to regroup on offense might be more strategic.
- Score Differential: The score of the game can influence the decision. A team trailing by a significant margin might be more inclined to take risks for a big play.
- Field Position: If the missed field goal occurs close to the end zone, the potential reward of a return might not outweigh the risk of a turnover deep in their own territory.
Famous Missed Field Goal Returns in NFL History
Several memorable missed field goal returns have unfolded in NFL history. One notable instance is Antonio Cromartie’s 109-yard missed field goal return for a touchdown in 2007, showcasing the electrifying potential of this rare play. These extraordinary moments highlight the excitement and unpredictability a missed field goal can inject into a football game.
Conclusion
So, yes, you can return a missed field goal in American football, but it’s a decision fraught with strategic complexities. Coaches and players must weigh the potential rewards against the inherent risks, considering factors like time, score, and field position. While successful returns are relatively uncommon, they can be game-changing plays that etch themselves into football lore. The next time you see a missed field goal, remember, the play isn’t over until the whistle blows!
FAQs
1. Can you always return a missed field goal?
No, you can’t always return a missed field goal. If it goes out of bounds in the end zone or beyond the end zone untouched, it’s a touchback.
2. When is it a good idea to return a missed field goal?
It’s generally a good idea to return a missed field goal when you have good field position, time on the clock, and the risk is worth the potential reward.
3. What happens if you fumble a missed field goal return?
If you fumble a missed field goal return, the kicking team has a chance to recover the ball. If they do, they get possession.
4. What’s the longest missed field goal return in NFL history?
Antonio Cromartie holds the record for the longest missed field goal return in NFL history at 109 yards for a touchdown.
5. Is it common to see missed field goal returns?
Missed field goal returns are relatively uncommon but incredibly exciting when they happen.
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