Doink!
The sound every fan hates, the ball striking the goalpost.
This season, even the best kickers are struggling, so I decided to take a deeper look into some possible reasons why this might be the case.
Teams are relying more on field goals, as offensive struggles have lead to fewer touchdowns so far this season.
Field goals account for 23% of total points this season, up from 19% in 2020. This increase in attempts, including from longer distances, has amplified the pressure on kickers to perform.
While long-distance kicks have improved, kickers are struggling on shorter attempts – including extra points – and in critical late-game scenarios.
Success rates for field goals have significantly dropped, with a lower overall conversion rate with the game on the line.
The NFL’s new kickoff rule has meant offenses are starting drives closer to midfield, reducing punting and increasing the reliance on longer field goal attempts.
Teams are also attempting fewer fourth-down conversions, opting instead for field goal tries even in challenging weather conditions.
Justin Tucker, who was generally acknowledged as the best and most clutch kicker in the league for many years, has said it has now become a mental challenge for him, as nothing has changed with his technique but he cannot compartmentalise the missed kicks.
Will the fact that the season is entering crunch time – with so many teams having a chance to reach the playoffs or solidify their post season seeding – improve the outcomes for kickers?
It is tough to say, but as a former fly half and placekicker in amateur Rugby Union, I can advise it is a lonely occupation when you miss.
Miss enough in the billion dollar world of the NFL, and it normally means you are looking for a job pretty shortly afterwards.
