Los Angeles Chargers placekicker Cameron Dicker made headlines on Thursday night by successfully executing a 57-yard free-kick field goal, a rare achievement in NFL history. The Chargers triumphed over the Denver Broncos with a score of 34-27, a comeback that was set in motion by Dicker’s impressive kick just before halftime during Prime Video’s “Thursday Night Football.”
This marked the first successful free-kick field goal in the NFL since Ray Wersching, a former Chargers player, made a 45-yard kick against the Buffalo Bills on November 21, 1976. Wersching, who was watching the game, shared his delight over Dicker’s accomplishment, expressing no regrets about no longer holding the distinction of being the last player to score with this unique method.
As the Broncos held a 21-10 lead in the final seconds of the second quarter, they were forced to punt from their own 16-yard line. A fair catch signal by L.A. punt returner Derius Davis led to fair-catch interference, giving the Chargers a 15-yard penalty that advanced them to the Broncos’ 47-yard line. Despite the clock showing no remaining time, viewers were surprised to learn from rules analyst Terry McAulay that a free-kick attempt could still occur.
In a fair-catch kick scenario, the receiving team can attempt a field goal without the usual pressure of opponents rushing in. Chargers coach Jim Harbaugh quickly decided to seize this opportunity for Dicker, who successfully completed the kick, narrowing Denver’s lead to 21-13.
Harbaugh, who has been keenly aware of this little-known rule, expressed his enthusiasm for it, stating that he aims to leverage it whenever possible. He recalled a similar incident from his time as the head coach of the San Francisco 49ers in 2013, where an attempt at a free-kick field goal did not succeed.
Wersching, reflecting on his own experience with this rule nearly five decades ago, admitted he was initially unsure about the process when instructed by his coach. He shared a fond memory of that game and the subsequent success that followed.
This unprecedented moment in the game underscores the dynamic nature of football and the opportunities that can arise even in seemingly routine situations. The Chargers’ innovative thinking and Dicker’s execution not only thrilled fans but also added a historical chapter to NFL play, reminding everyone of the game’s rich traditions and occasional surprises.