Los Angeles Chargers placekicker Cameron Dicker made headlines on Thursday by successfully executing a 57-yard free-kick field goal, a rarity in the NFL that many viewers may have missed due to the late hour of the game. This remarkable play occurred during the Chargers’ comeback victory against the Denver Broncos, where they secured a 34-27 win on Prime Video’s “Thursday Night Football.”
Dicker’s kick marked the first successful free-kick field goal since Ray Wersching, a former Charger, completed a 45-yard attempt against the Buffalo Bills on November 21, 1976. Wersching, who was watching the game, expressed delight at Dicker achieving a feat he once held alone, stating he has no regrets about now sharing the spotlight.
The play unfolded with the Broncos leading 21-10 in the dying seconds of the second quarter. Denver was forced to punt, which led to fair-catch interference by Tremon Smith on punt returner Derius Davis, resulting in a 15-yard penalty that placed the Chargers at the Broncos’ 47-yard line. Despite the clock hitting zero, the rules allowed for a free-kick attempt, prompting viewers to stay tuned as the opportunity arose.
Chargers head coach Jim Harbaugh, acknowledging the strategic advantage of this rare rule, swiftly sent Dicker onto the field. With no rushers and no snap or hold required, Dicker calmly converted the kick, narrowing the score to 21-13. Harbaugh affectionately referred to the rule as his “favorite” and expressed his desire to exploit it in future games.
Interestingly, Wersching, part of the 49ers’ two-time Super Bowl-winning team, reflected on his own experience with this obscure rule. He recalled the confusion he felt in 1976 when his coach used it effectively, something that had puzzled him at the time but ultimately culminated in success.
This historic moment not only highlights an extraordinary play in football history but also showcases the strategic depth coaches can bring to the game. Enthusiasts and players alike may find inspiration in the revival of rare plays and new excitement every time they step onto the field.