Can the kicking team advance a blocked field goal?
Field goals are a crucial part of American football, often determining the outcome of a game. The act of kicking a field goal is straightforward, but what happens if the kicking team’s attempt is blocked? This article delves into the question of whether the kicking team can advance a blocked field goal and explores the rules and implications surrounding this scenario.
In the NFL, a field goal is blocked when the offensive team successfully tackles the kicker or the ball before it crosses the line of scrimmage. According to the rules, when a field goal is blocked, the ball is placed at the spot of the block. However, the kicking team is not allowed to advance the blocked field goal.
The primary reason for this rule is to prevent teams from gaining an unfair advantage. If the kicking team were allowed to advance a blocked field goal, it would essentially be giving them a second chance to score. This could lead to a situation where a team is penalized for a blocked field goal, yet still has an opportunity to score points.
In college football, the rules are slightly different. If a field goal is blocked, the ball is placed at the spot of the block, and the kicking team is allowed to attempt a play from that point. However, the team is not guaranteed to advance the ball. The play is subject to the same rules as any other play in the game, and the offensive team must successfully advance the ball beyond the line of scrimmage to maintain possession.
The blocked field goal scenario is not without its controversies. Some argue that the kicking team should be allowed to advance the blocked field goal, as it would make the game more exciting and give the team a better chance to score. Others believe that the current rules are fair and help maintain the integrity of the game.
In conclusion, the answer to the question “Can the kicking team advance a blocked field goal?” is no, at least in the NFL. The rules are designed to prevent teams from gaining an unfair advantage and maintain the competitive balance of the game. While the rules may not be perfect, they help ensure that the outcome of a game is determined by the teams’ abilities and not by luck or chance.
