This is what white kids dream about. At least the kids in my neighborhood.
Of course, I had to take it a step farther. Once I found some unused 10 foot long baseboard strips my dad had saved in the basement next to the washer and dryer. I pulled them suckers out, nailed them to the split rail fence on the side of the house, and then went to town with my red and yellow two-tone nerf football.
Fast forward to age 43, and having been dumb enough to purchase enough property to indulge in fiscally irresponsible projects, I decided to see just how far PVC pipes from Home Depot and my rudimentary understanding of engineering could take me.
Well, here it is.
Not bad. But it's also a very crude 1.0 version. I forgot the streamers on top, and I am too lazy to take it down and fix it. Also, the final-final version will get the requisite neon yellow paint job (anybody know what pantone code # that is?).
I also just sorta jerry-rigged the posts with duct tape and cardboard so that they would fit together snugly. The cement holes are also pretty half-assed, I used just a small tub of anchor rail cement and threw some dirt on top.
I would like to make a "t-style" goalpost once I get this section of the property graded out and re-seeded to accomodate a nearly 80 yard field. I think I can do it with a larger PVC base post (probably 6" in outer diameter) and a crossbar of reinforced 4" O.D. PVC pipe connected in the middle with some sort of "t-connector."
The uprights are a little more tricky.
The 2" PVC pipes I used here, are approximately 23' from ground to tip. Not bad, but a regulation NFL goalpost is a monstrous 40' from ground to tip. Too tall. I'd like to get 30 feet and call it a day.
For that, however, I think I need to order some custom aluminum or light steel poles, preferably 10' each that interlock (so I can break the goalpost down and store it in the summer). These will be more rigid than the PVC pipes.
My concern, is how thick do I need the aluminum/steel poles to be, so that a DOINK off one of the uprights doesn't bend it? Guess I'll just have to use trial and error.
Now, the only thing left, is for me to get a kicking lesson. Frankly, I suck. I am showing you the 2 out of 10 kicks that fly decent. The others, pretty squirrelly. Maybe I can call Graham Gano over at Redskin Park?
How much do you think he charges?
If not him, does anybody have one of the Zendejas brothers numbers?
It's Up... and It Is.... GOOOOODDD! The Art of the Field Goal in American Football
In the fast-paced world of American football, touchdowns and big plays often steal the spotlight, but there's an art to the field goal that's equally captivating. The precision, skill, and pressure involved in executing a successful field goal attempt can make or break a game. In this article, we'll explore the fascinating world of field goals in American football, from the fundamentals to the psychology of the kicker, and answer frequently asked questions (FAQs) to provide a comprehensive understanding of this crucial aspect of the game.
The Basics: What Is a Field Goal?
A field goal in American football is a scoring play where the kicker attempts to send the ball through the opponent's goalposts, typically from a considerable distance, to earn points for their team. It's an essential tool for racking up points when a touchdown isn't within reach.
The Anatomy of a Field Goal Attempt
The Snap: It all starts with the snap from the center to the holder. The timing and accuracy of this snap are crucial for a successful kick.
The Hold: The holder must catch the snap and place the football on the ground with the laces facing away from the kicker. The position of the hold is critical for an accurate kick.
The Kick: The kicker, often one of the most specialized players on the team, approaches the ball and strikes it with precision. The angle, height, and power of the kick are all meticulously calculated.
The Goalposts: The ultimate objective is to send the football through the opponent's upright goalposts, located at the back of the end zone. The width between the goalposts is 18 feet and 6 inches in the NFL.
The Psychology of the Kicker
Pressure and Focus: Kickers often face immense pressure, especially in high-stakes situations. Maintaining unwavering focus is essential to block out distractions and execute the kick accurately.
Routine and Repetition: Successful kickers rely on a well-practiced routine. From their steps to their timing, every detail is honed through countless repetitions.
Mind Games: Kickers must contend with mind games, both from opponents and their own thoughts. The art of psychological resilience is critical for consistent performance.
Team Trust: Kickers need the trust and support of their teammates and coaches. Belief in the kicker's abilities is a powerful motivator.
FAQs: Answering Your Questions
How far can a field goal be attempted in American football?
Field goals can be attempted from various distances, but the record for the longest successful field goal in the NFL is 64 yards.
Can field goals be blocked by the opposing team?
Yes, field goals can be blocked by leaping defenders attempting to swat the ball before it clears the line of scrimmage.
What happens if a field goal attempt is missed?
If a field goal attempt misses and doesn't touch any part of the goalposts, the opposing team takes possession of the ball from the spot of the kick.
Do kickers have a unique set of skills compared to other players in American football?
Yes, kickers possess a specialized skill set that includes accuracy, distance, and the ability to perform under immense pressure. They often have a background in soccer.
Why do teams sometimes opt for a field goal instead of going for a touchdown?
Field goals are a reliable way to score points when a team is within field goal range but can't secure a touchdown. In close games, they can make the difference between victory and defeat.
The field goal in American football may appear deceptively simple, but it's a complex and captivating aspect of the game. From the precision of the kicker to the pressure-cooker moments, field goals are essential for a team's success. Each successful kick is a testament to the mental fortitude and physical prowess of the kicker and their ability to contribute to their team's victory. As fans cheer for those moments when the football sails through the uprights, they celebrate the artistry and skill of the field goal in American football.
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