Is it possible to kick a 100-yard field goal? This question has been pondered by football fans and players alike, as the feat seems almost mythical in nature. The 100-yard field goal is one of the longest and most challenging plays in the sport, and only a select few have been able to accomplish it. In this article, we will explore the possibility of a 100-yard field goal, discussing the skills required, the physics involved, and the historical context of this extraordinary achievement.
Before delving into the mechanics of a 100-yard field goal, it is important to note that the term “field goal” typically refers to a kick from anywhere on the field, with the distance from the goalposts determining the point value. In the NFL, a standard field goal is 53 yards or less, while kicks from beyond 50 yards are considered “long” field goals. However, the concept of a 100-yard field goal is not an official rule in any major football league, so let’s assume that the goalposts are placed at the usual distance for a 100-yard field goal: 100 yards from the kicker.
Physically, a 100-yard field goal requires immense strength, power, and precision. The average NFL kicker has a leg strength of around 65-70 pounds of force, which is enough to kick a 50-yard field goal. However, a 100-yard field goal would require a significantly greater force, estimated to be around 85-90 pounds of force. Achieving this level of power is no small feat, and only a few kickers have been able to do so.
Another crucial factor in a 100-yard field goal is the technique and mechanics used by the kicker. A well-executed technique involves a strong plant foot, a quick leg swing, and a precise strike on the ball. The kicker must also account for wind conditions, the shape of the ball, and the angle of the kick. Even with the right technique, a 100-yard field goal is a long shot due to the immense distance and the margin for error.
Historically, only a few kickers have come close to achieving a 100-yard field goal. In 1976, Tom Dempsey set a record by kicking a 63-yard field goal with a prosthetic foot, and in 2011, David Akers kicked a 64-yard field goal, the longest in NFL history. While these attempts are impressive, they are still far from the 100-yard mark. In 2018, the New England Patriots’ kicker, Stephen Gostkowski, attempted a 99-yard field goal during a pre-season game, coming up just short. This attempt was the closest anyone has come to a 100-yard field goal.
Considering the physical and technical demands, as well as the historical context, it is still a topic of debate whether a 100-yard field goal is truly possible. While the record books show that it has yet to be achieved, the advancements in kicking techniques and equipment may one day allow for this extraordinary feat. For now, the 100-yard field goal remains a tantalizing possibility, a challenge that continues to captivate football fans around the world.
