The Los Angeles Chargers secured a critical 34-27 win over the Denver Broncos in their push for the playoffs. With this victory, the Chargers improved to a 9-6 record, surpassing the Broncos in their division and moving from eighth to seventh place in the AFC standings. This win was significant, not just for the comeback effort but also for achieving the NFL’s first “fair catch kick” since 1976. Cameron Dicker completed the rare play with a 57-yard field goal as the third-quarter clock expired.
What Is a Fair Catch Kick?
The fair catch kick is a rare play, exclusive to the NFL, and occurs after a punt or kickoff return when the receiving team calls for a fair catch. Once the ball’s position is established, the team can either initiate a standard offensive drive or attempt a field goal.
In this type of field goal attempt, the defense cannot intervene or block the kick—they must remain at least 10 yards away.
This play is rarely seen due to the usual placement of the fair catch, often deep in a team’s own territory, making the distance to the goalposts challenging. Additionally, if the kick is missed, the opposing team gains possession at the spot of the attempt, which carries significant risk.
Cover image: X (@Chargers)
