What Does the Kicker Do in Football? And Why Do They Always Seem to Have the Coolest Hair?

Football is a game of strategy, strength, and precision. Among the many players on the field, the kicker often stands out—not just for their unique role, but also for their seemingly effortless ability to send the ball soaring through the air. But what exactly does a kicker do in football? And why do they always seem to have the coolest hair? Let’s dive into the multifaceted world of the kicker, exploring their responsibilities, their impact on the game, and the mystique that surrounds them.

The Role of the Kicker: More Than Just a Foot

At first glance, the kicker’s job might seem simple: kick the ball. But in reality, their role is far more nuanced and critical to the success of the team. Here are the primary responsibilities of a kicker:

1. Field Goals: The most iconic moment for any kicker is the field goal attempt. Whether it’s a 20-yard chip shot or a 50-yard bomb, the kicker’s ability to accurately send the ball through the uprights can make or break a game. The pressure is immense, especially in high-stakes situations like the final seconds of a close game.

2. Extra Points: After a touchdown, the kicker is called upon to score an extra point by kicking the ball through the uprights from a relatively short distance. While this might seem like a gimme, even the best kickers occasionally miss, leading to dramatic shifts in momentum.

3. Kickoffs: At the start of each half and after every score, the kicker sends the ball deep into the opponent’s territory. A well-executed kickoff can pin the opposing team far from their end zone, giving the defense a strategic advantage.

4. Onside Kicks: In desperate situations, teams may attempt an onside kick to regain possession of the ball. This requires the kicker to execute a precise, low-trajectory kick that bounces unpredictably, giving their team a chance to recover the ball.

5. Clutch Performances: Kickers are often called upon in high-pressure situations, such as game-winning field goals or overtime scenarios. Their mental fortitude and ability to perform under pressure are just as important as their physical skills.

The Anatomy of a Perfect Kick

What makes a great kicker? It’s not just about having a strong leg. Here are the key components of a perfect kick:

1. Technique: A kicker’s form is crucial. From the angle of their approach to the placement of their plant foot, every detail matters. The best kickers have a consistent, repeatable motion that allows them to deliver accurate kicks time and time again.

2. Power and Accuracy: While power is important for long-distance field goals and kickoffs, accuracy is equally critical. A kicker must be able to place the ball exactly where it needs to go, whether that’s between the uprights or into a specific area of the field.

3. Mental Toughness: Kickers face immense pressure, especially in critical moments. The ability to stay calm, focused, and confident is what separates the good kickers from the great ones.

4. Adaptability: Weather conditions, field conditions, and even the behavior of the ball can vary from game to game. A great kicker can adjust their approach to account for these variables.

The Kicker’s Impact on the Game

While kickers might not get as much attention as quarterbacks or running backs, their impact on the game is undeniable. Here’s how they shape the outcome of a football game:

1. Scoring: Kickers are responsible for a significant portion of a team’s points. In many games, the difference between winning and losing comes down to a single field goal or extra point.

2. Field Position: A well-executed kickoff can force the opposing team to start their drive deep in their own territory, making it harder for them to score. Conversely, a poorly executed kickoff can give the opponent excellent field position.

3. Momentum: A successful field goal or extra point can energize a team and its fans, while a missed kick can deflate morale. Kickers have the power to shift the momentum of a game in an instant.

4. Strategy: Coaches often base their play-calling decisions on the abilities of their kicker. For example, a team with a reliable long-range kicker might be more willing to attempt a field goal from 50 yards out, while a team with a less confident kicker might opt to go for it on fourth down.

The Mystique of the Kicker

Kickers occupy a unique space in the world of football. They’re often seen as a bit of an enigma—part athlete, part artist, and part loner. Here are a few reasons why kickers are so fascinating:

1. Specialization: Unlike most players, who are involved in every play, kickers are specialists who only take the field in specific situations. This specialization gives them an air of mystery and sets them apart from their teammates.

2. Pressure Cooker: Kickers are often the heroes or the scapegoats of a game. A single kick can define their career, for better or worse. This high-stakes role adds to their mystique.

3. Cool Hair: Let’s face it—kickers often have the best hair on the team. Whether it’s a flowing mane, a perfectly styled buzz cut, or a daring dye job, kickers seem to have a knack for standing out in the looks department. Maybe it’s because they have more time to focus on their grooming, or maybe it’s just part of the kicker mystique.

4. Quirky Personalities: From their pre-kick rituals to their off-the-field hobbies, kickers often have unique personalities that make them stand out. Whether it’s a love of classical music, a passion for knitting, or an obsession with astrology, kickers bring a touch of individuality to the team.

The Evolution of the Kicker

The role of the kicker has evolved significantly over the years. In the early days of football, kicking was a much more prominent part of the game, with teams relying heavily on field goals and drop kicks. As the game evolved, the role of the kicker became more specialized, and today’s kickers are highly trained athletes who dedicate their careers to perfecting their craft.

1. Historical Significance: In the early 20th century, players like Jim Thorpe and Paddy Driscoll were known for their kicking abilities, which were often the deciding factor in close games.

2. Modern Innovations: Today’s kickers benefit from advances in training, equipment, and analytics. They use specialized shoes, practice with high-tech tools, and study film to refine their technique.

3. Global Influence: Many of today’s top kickers come from soccer backgrounds, bringing a unique skill set to the game. This global influence has raised the bar for what’s possible in terms of accuracy and power.

FAQs About Kickers

Q: Why do kickers often wear different shoes than other players?
A: Kickers wear specialized shoes designed for kicking. These shoes have a flat, hard surface on the toe to provide better contact with the ball, allowing for more power and accuracy.

Q: How do kickers practice?
A: Kickers spend hours practicing their technique, often working with specialized coaches. They focus on consistency, power, and accuracy, and they also practice under various conditions to prepare for game-day scenarios.

Q: What’s the longest field goal ever made in the NFL?
A: The longest field goal in NFL history is 66 yards, achieved by Justin Tucker of the Baltimore Ravens in 2021.

Q: Do kickers get tackled?
A: While kickers are rarely involved in tackles, they can be tackled if they’re attempting a fake kick or if they’re the last line of defense on a return play. However, this is relatively uncommon.

Q: Why do kickers sometimes do a little dance before they kick?
A: Many kickers have pre-kick rituals or routines that help them focus and calm their nerves. These rituals can range from a simple deep breath to a full-blown dance—whatever works to get them in the zone.

In conclusion, the kicker is a vital yet often underappreciated part of any football team. From their precision on the field to their unique personalities off it, kickers bring a special kind of magic to the game. So the next time you see a kicker lining up for a field goal, take a moment to appreciate the skill, pressure, and yes, the cool hair that make them one of the most fascinating players in football.